Before I read any specific books or articles about writing, I want to capture some of my thoughts, and work through a few things myself.
Question 1: Why write a: novel, novella, short story, flash piece?
Question 2: How can a reader learn about the characters (plot): Consume, Infer, Deduce, Discover
The reason for Question 1: I have an idea for a story. I tend to think very, very big, so I naturally assume that the story has to be a novel. Yet, that is not necessary; I've recently read a few short stories which cover huge amounts of time, with very interesting characters who undergo considerable growth. In fact, I'm about to read a story by Kornbluth where the writer of the introduction says that the themes in this 5000-word tale are the same as in the entire Foundation Trilogy, with more interesting characters. I'll see if I agree, but the point is the same. A large story can be short, and characters we only know for 5000 words can be substantial.
Lately, I've taken to writing very short works (for Indeterminacy or in my own blog, or just on my own) which Mike has called "Flash fiction." Both Mike and Indie have commented on my ability to pack quite a lot into a small space. If that's true, then perhaps my best chance at successfully telling the story is in distilling my ideas to their core and writing a series of Flash Scenes.
Well, if I decide to try that, then I need to think about how to get the important information to my readers -- both about character and plot. Thus, Question 2.
I can write facts about the characters (plot). Then the readers consume them. Except in rare instances, the story paradigm leads readers to believe that facts presented by authors are truth, so those facts lay the framework for the story.
Merely giving information is not interesting, however, and is inefficient if I'm to build a character and engage the readers with the story and the characters. So I can write things that imply, and then allow readers to infer. I should do this if the information being inferred is not particularly critical to the plot, or if I'm going to contradict it later and want the shock value. For example, in the first few paragraphs of my story "Mirror's" I have the captain interacting with the helmsman in a way which would get a reader to infer masculinity, only to reveal the captain as a woman, to drive home the point.
Then there are things that I want the readers to deduce. For my part, when I'm reading, I enjoy piecing together the characters and plot, deducing the next step as it unfolds. I love the feeling of "Oh, that makes so much sense now!" And, again, it's more efficient than just laying out all the facts.
Finally, there are some things that I should let the readers discover. As in the example above, it might be casting away an assumption, but it also might be a key piece of information that must be withheld until a crucial point, in order to allow that "Aha!" moment.
So, the story I outlined in the car yesterday started out as a Trilogy of novels. Now, perhaps it's a three-story cycle, or a three-act story. It's too big for a single "Flash Fiction" but maybe I can write it as a series of them.
Friday, December 28, 2007
More vacation
Maybe I couldn't stand to be on vacation every day, but with days like these, it's hard to imagine why...
December 26: Drive to Maple Grove and meet the Will clan at "Dave & Buster's" which has really excellent food and lots of fun electronic games. We chatted. We played trivia. We watched Leah try to get the Power Tower tickets (and she did!). They had a nice room which we used all afternoon, and the room had a flat digital TV with input for a computer, so Sherry was able to display the Will Christmas slide show which she had built the day before. Great fun! Thanks for finding the place, Deb!
December 27: I spent the day at Paul's playing 13 games of Magic! Then supper with Paul & Pete at Happy Joe's. Then "Pirates 3" at home with my ladies. What a day! I also spent time during the car ride down outlining a story.
December 28: Chores, and now relaxation. Exchanging too-small clothing items, getting my new glasses, grocery shopping. Still, not as stressful as work. And I'm to the "fun" part of the day even earlier.
Tomorrow, Paul will arrive and Lee will return. The next day, Sarah will get Troy back. The next day, Pete will get here for New Year's Eve. And throughout that time, Adam will likely be here most of the days. A full house! Games, movies and fun.
When I get into doldrums, I need to come back, read about this vacation, and remind myself that life is full of more than drudgery.
December 26: Drive to Maple Grove and meet the Will clan at "Dave & Buster's" which has really excellent food and lots of fun electronic games. We chatted. We played trivia. We watched Leah try to get the Power Tower tickets (and she did!). They had a nice room which we used all afternoon, and the room had a flat digital TV with input for a computer, so Sherry was able to display the Will Christmas slide show which she had built the day before. Great fun! Thanks for finding the place, Deb!
December 27: I spent the day at Paul's playing 13 games of Magic! Then supper with Paul & Pete at Happy Joe's. Then "Pirates 3" at home with my ladies. What a day! I also spent time during the car ride down outlining a story.
December 28: Chores, and now relaxation. Exchanging too-small clothing items, getting my new glasses, grocery shopping. Still, not as stressful as work. And I'm to the "fun" part of the day even earlier.
Tomorrow, Paul will arrive and Lee will return. The next day, Sarah will get Troy back. The next day, Pete will get here for New Year's Eve. And throughout that time, Adam will likely be here most of the days. A full house! Games, movies and fun.
When I get into doldrums, I need to come back, read about this vacation, and remind myself that life is full of more than drudgery.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Christmas Eve 2007
A rough Christmas Eve timeline, from our house.
10:00 AM - Get up. Vacation is glorious!
Noon - Lunch. Many options, since we've had such good meals in the preceding days.
12:30 PM - Sarah, Troy and Leah play Rummicube while Sherry prepares the frosting.
1:15 PM - Decorate the sugar cookies. Troy and Lee are initiated into the tradition. Several good decorations, with this years notables being some intricately decorated trees and snowmen, a tie-dye cookie or two, a polar bear in the grass, and the Star Wars characters.
2:45 PM - Sherry starts cooking the chicken soup. The rest of us do our own thing, killing time, anxious and exicted. Once again, the Wii Sports game is used for some bowling and baseball.
5:00 PM - Arrive at church. We're the first people to sit down (but not by much) so we had our choice of pews. 7th back on the right. And all nine of us fit quite well -- good thing we're all thin! (Though I'm less so, after all the goodies I've been eating!)
5:30 PM - Service begins. A mix-up puts the hymns out of order, but at least we sang them all! Pastor's message: remember, we didn't deserve Christmas, so be thankful and appreciate this most holy of nights.
6:55PM - Start the photos. While the soup noodles cook, we get our pictures taken. Everyone looked so great!
7:15 PM - Dinner! Chicken noodle soup, French bread, cheese which Adam sliced, goodies, veggies, crackers, lefse!
8:30 PM - Open the gifts! One at a time. Excellent fun, and joyful togetherness. I got to go on a hunt! Using 15-year old pictures of Leah from a hunt in 1992. What a joy! Some great gifts, too.
This was a blessed Christmas Eve. Surrounded by my family, full of love. I hope each and every person who celebrates Christmas had a great day!
10:00 AM - Get up. Vacation is glorious!
Noon - Lunch. Many options, since we've had such good meals in the preceding days.
12:30 PM - Sarah, Troy and Leah play Rummicube while Sherry prepares the frosting.
1:15 PM - Decorate the sugar cookies. Troy and Lee are initiated into the tradition. Several good decorations, with this years notables being some intricately decorated trees and snowmen, a tie-dye cookie or two, a polar bear in the grass, and the Star Wars characters.
2:45 PM - Sherry starts cooking the chicken soup. The rest of us do our own thing, killing time, anxious and exicted. Once again, the Wii Sports game is used for some bowling and baseball.
5:00 PM - Arrive at church. We're the first people to sit down (but not by much) so we had our choice of pews. 7th back on the right. And all nine of us fit quite well -- good thing we're all thin! (Though I'm less so, after all the goodies I've been eating!)
5:30 PM - Service begins. A mix-up puts the hymns out of order, but at least we sang them all! Pastor's message: remember, we didn't deserve Christmas, so be thankful and appreciate this most holy of nights.
6:55PM - Start the photos. While the soup noodles cook, we get our pictures taken. Everyone looked so great!
7:15 PM - Dinner! Chicken noodle soup, French bread, cheese which Adam sliced, goodies, veggies, crackers, lefse!
8:30 PM - Open the gifts! One at a time. Excellent fun, and joyful togetherness. I got to go on a hunt! Using 15-year old pictures of Leah from a hunt in 1992. What a joy! Some great gifts, too.
- Adam & Marisa: a digital photo frame. I'll get that working this morning.
- Lucas: A Wii-mote charger. Also, an enjoyable task for this morning.
- Sarah & Leah & Sherry: Framed poster-sized photos of Halfdome, Maui & Kuai.
- Lee: A painting of Gooseberry Falls for Sherry and me.
- Sherry: Several nice articles of clothes, the Pullman Dark Materials trilogy (Golden Compass, etc.), and a new leather coat!
- Mike: The Writer's Journey by Mark Vogler.
This was a blessed Christmas Eve. Surrounded by my family, full of love. I hope each and every person who celebrates Christmas had a great day!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
What to do with "Small Stuff"
"Don't Sweat the Small Stuff." That's what the famous book says. That really is good advice, if the "small stuff" in question is something that's potentially irritating or troublesome, but ultimately unimportant.
Yet, it's also true that if you ignore the "Little Things" in life, you miss some of the best parts of living. Search the 'net for "the little things" and you'll see that people think you should appreciate them.
Today, I had decided I would replace the light fixture on the fan in my den. That old fixture has been a nuisance for a few years now. It had four directional lamps, but the lamps were so loose that they would only point down. One of the sockets had a short that would blow the circuit breaker if a bulb was inserted. Another would just blow any bulb inserted. So, for years, I didn't sweat it. Two lights of four were enough to work by most of the time. Besides, I am not what you would call handy. And, let's be honest, working with electricity is dicey.
But finally, today, I went out and bought a replacement. In 30 minutes, it was installed and working. A "little thing" but highly satisfying. I improved the conditions in "my" room. I did it myself. And I didn't have any of the silly little setbacks that always seem to happen when I try to do a handy task.
A few days ago, I unclogged a drain. Today, I installed a light. Both jobs left me with a nice sense of accomplishment. "Small stuff" that was turned into "Little Things."
Yet, it's also true that if you ignore the "Little Things" in life, you miss some of the best parts of living. Search the 'net for "the little things" and you'll see that people think you should appreciate them.
Today, I had decided I would replace the light fixture on the fan in my den. That old fixture has been a nuisance for a few years now. It had four directional lamps, but the lamps were so loose that they would only point down. One of the sockets had a short that would blow the circuit breaker if a bulb was inserted. Another would just blow any bulb inserted. So, for years, I didn't sweat it. Two lights of four were enough to work by most of the time. Besides, I am not what you would call handy. And, let's be honest, working with electricity is dicey.
But finally, today, I went out and bought a replacement. In 30 minutes, it was installed and working. A "little thing" but highly satisfying. I improved the conditions in "my" room. I did it myself. And I didn't have any of the silly little setbacks that always seem to happen when I try to do a handy task.
A few days ago, I unclogged a drain. Today, I installed a light. Both jobs left me with a nice sense of accomplishment. "Small stuff" that was turned into "Little Things."
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Highlights (so far)
Vacation is great. That's all there is to it.
Today I've prepared for Superworld by getting several characters documented in the template Adam created last year. I updated it a bit, and filled out a template for three characters. Work, but fun work, and I got to listen to Christmas music by Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Lorie Line while doing it.
Also, I got to play five games of Magic with Lucas. We had a couple of really good ones. Ahhhh! Magic!
I cook supper tonight. Well, I grill the burgers. I guess Sherry will get most of the rest of the meal ready. Still, grilling in freezing temperatures should count for something. Sarah's friend Rebecca will join us tonight. I don't know what else the evening will hold, but I will enjoy it, I have no doubt.
Today I've prepared for Superworld by getting several characters documented in the template Adam created last year. I updated it a bit, and filled out a template for three characters. Work, but fun work, and I got to listen to Christmas music by Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Lorie Line while doing it.
Also, I got to play five games of Magic with Lucas. We had a couple of really good ones. Ahhhh! Magic!
I cook supper tonight. Well, I grill the burgers. I guess Sherry will get most of the rest of the meal ready. Still, grilling in freezing temperatures should count for something. Sarah's friend Rebecca will join us tonight. I don't know what else the evening will hold, but I will enjoy it, I have no doubt.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Random Bits
Quote for the day:
Talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see.- Arthur Schopenhauer
Hmmm. So, would I rather be a great talent, or a great genius? If no one can see your target, you probably look delusional. So, does it matter how you look? What if you never reach your target?
Link for the day:
Sarah sent me this one, to a musical light display. It is fantastic. You have to listen to it, too.Python Update of the Day:
Entering today, I've seen episodes 1-6. Episode 6 has "The Dull Life of a City Stockbroker" which has probably the first televised nudity I ever saw. Oh, and "Crunchy Frog." I bet there is a website that lists all the sketches, by episode. Let's find out. One, Two, Three. One is imdb.com and doesn't list all the sketches. Two is Wikipedia (of course) and it lists the sketches and even has a link as if it's going to take you to a bio of Johann Gambolputty, but it doesn't. Three is a fan site, and even lets you download scripts! And it has the greatest name in German Baroque music, in its entirety, in the script!Snippet of the Day:
Feeling a bit turquoise (which was somewhat like lackadaisical, with a dash on ennui and a pinch of "who the hell cares") he stepped out into traffic without waiting for the light to change. The oncoming bus swerved, hitting a little Toyota, but missing him entirely. Taking this as a sign, he completed the crossing, tripping slightly on the curb. He entered the Olde English and swore to himself never to set foot in McTaggert's Pub again.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Early Python
Episodes 1 & 2 contain "And now for something completely different," Picasso on a Bicycle, The Funniest Joke in the World, Italian for Italians. Clearly, "And now..." is the most famousest, and that's saying a lot. And it's in the very beginning.
Episode 3 has "The Larch," "The Restaurant Sketch (aka "Dirty Fork"), the Seduced Milkman, and -- oh my goodness -- Nudge Nudge!
And already in Episode 4, we have Defending Against Fruit ("Poin-ted Stick!")
Four seasons; 45 episodes, and already I've seen some of the best. Looking forward to "The Cheeseshop" and "Ministry of Silly Walks." And more.
Episode 3 has "The Larch," "The Restaurant Sketch (aka "Dirty Fork"), the Seduced Milkman, and -- oh my goodness -- Nudge Nudge!
And already in Episode 4, we have Defending Against Fruit ("Poin-ted Stick!")
Four seasons; 45 episodes, and already I've seen some of the best. Looking forward to "The Cheeseshop" and "Ministry of Silly Walks." And more.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Sunny Friday
This will be my last full day of work for 2007. I'll go into the office briefly on Monday, but then I get to have vacation with my family and friends. This sunny Friday heralds a great time of relaxation.
Yes, there will be work to do, but it won't be "work." Shoveling, cleaning, planning for next year's stewardship campaign, figuring out tuition, balancing the checkbook -- these are all ordinary tasks with (mostly) defined end points.
I don't write about work, so I'll just say this: work at home is much, much different from my job. I will gladly take a break from the latter, and will re-energize.
------
Leah's Concert Choir concert last night was wonderful. And the new "Christmas at Luther: 2007" CD Sarah brought home for me is heavenly.
Let the holidays begin!
Yes, there will be work to do, but it won't be "work." Shoveling, cleaning, planning for next year's stewardship campaign, figuring out tuition, balancing the checkbook -- these are all ordinary tasks with (mostly) defined end points.
I don't write about work, so I'll just say this: work at home is much, much different from my job. I will gladly take a break from the latter, and will re-energize.
------
Leah's Concert Choir concert last night was wonderful. And the new "Christmas at Luther: 2007" CD Sarah brought home for me is heavenly.
Let the holidays begin!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
The Value of the Fourth Estate
As the primary/caucus season approaches, one of the valuable tools we voters can use to get acquainted with our potential Presidential candidates is the series currently being run by Katie Couric and CBS News. It's called "Primary Questions" and it asks each of the major candidates the same ten questions. I've seen the segment twice on the CBS Evening News, and of course they post it on their site. [If that link takes you somewhere else, just search for "Primary Questions."]
From the few I've seen, its clear that some of the questions lead to fairly canned answers, but others reveal the personalities and beliefs of the people who want to be President of these United States.
I'm interested to see, for example, that the only candidate who thinks the topic of Global Warming is not ready for immediate action is Fred Thompson. He took the question and answered it vaguely, then turned to a comparison of the looming Social Security disaster. He argues that we know the entitlement shortfall is coming, and there are things we can certainly do about it, yet people want to spend time on climate change which we can't solve unilaterally, and which has many potential answers. I think he's behind the times when he says there are unanswered questions and we don't know if this is a cyclical change. I do appreciate that he wants to address the Social Security issue.
No, I won't vote for Thompson. But I do appreciate the Press doing this bit of work to help us compare candidates side-by-side, and outside of a debate format.
McCain is still the most attractive Republican for me. Maybe he could be in the Cabinet for whichever Democrat wins. Biden, though not getting much attention, has good answers, but I'll be surprised if he's still around on Super Tuesday. If I vote in our caucus (I've never done that before) it will be a hard choice for me. There are things I like about Clinton, Obama, Edwards and Biden. Perhaps I shouldn't be so concerned about which one is more "electable."
From the few I've seen, its clear that some of the questions lead to fairly canned answers, but others reveal the personalities and beliefs of the people who want to be President of these United States.
I'm interested to see, for example, that the only candidate who thinks the topic of Global Warming is not ready for immediate action is Fred Thompson. He took the question and answered it vaguely, then turned to a comparison of the looming Social Security disaster. He argues that we know the entitlement shortfall is coming, and there are things we can certainly do about it, yet people want to spend time on climate change which we can't solve unilaterally, and which has many potential answers. I think he's behind the times when he says there are unanswered questions and we don't know if this is a cyclical change. I do appreciate that he wants to address the Social Security issue.
No, I won't vote for Thompson. But I do appreciate the Press doing this bit of work to help us compare candidates side-by-side, and outside of a debate format.
McCain is still the most attractive Republican for me. Maybe he could be in the Cabinet for whichever Democrat wins. Biden, though not getting much attention, has good answers, but I'll be surprised if he's still around on Super Tuesday. If I vote in our caucus (I've never done that before) it will be a hard choice for me. There are things I like about Clinton, Obama, Edwards and Biden. Perhaps I shouldn't be so concerned about which one is more "electable."
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Nutcracking and Python and DVDs, Oh My!
Conversation over lunch touched on "The Nutcracker." That put me in the mood for some Tchaikovsky, so I'm at "V. Arabian Dance" right now. Yes, another kind of Christmas music.
And, for something completely different, I bought the complete "Monty Python's Flying Circus" yesterday and watched the first two episodes. They made me laugh. Still. I was assured by Sherry that no one would be buying it for me for Christmas (or probably ever!)
That leads me to mention this: I have updated my page of DVDs; the ones I own, and those I'd like to own.
And, for something completely different, I bought the complete "Monty Python's Flying Circus" yesterday and watched the first two episodes. They made me laugh. Still. I was assured by Sherry that no one would be buying it for me for Christmas (or probably ever!)
That leads me to mention this: I have updated my page of DVDs; the ones I own, and those I'd like to own.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Quotes
I enjoy Google's new iGoogle interface. It allows me to customize what I see when I go to the site, which I do almost every day for some reason or another. One of the items I put on my page is a panel with quotes. Here are two of today's:
If you haven't found something strange during the day, it hasn't been much of a day.
- John A. Wheeler
I don't know if the first quote is about writing, but it's certainly a tenet I (try to) use when writing.
The second quote, well, it just makes me smile!
Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.
- Antoine de Saint-Exupery
- Antoine de Saint-Exupery
If you haven't found something strange during the day, it hasn't been much of a day.
- John A. Wheeler
I don't know if the first quote is about writing, but it's certainly a tenet I (try to) use when writing.
The second quote, well, it just makes me smile!
Christmas Tree
The sun wasn't shining, but the photo turned out well anyway. We have two trees again this year. This one is in the sunroom and is decorated with new coordinating ornaments. I moved the furniture away from the tree and fireplace for the photo. It makes for a clearer shot, but doesn't capture the cozy nature of the room. I spent a couple of hours in this room on Sunday, building Magic decks, and listening to Christmas music, by the fire and the tree. Glorious relaxation.
The other tree is in the living room, and has our ornaments from throughout the years (many of them, not all.) Soon, the college kids will be home and we will get to have them put some of their ornaments on, as well. It's a great homecoming tradition.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Latest Micro-Reviews - Edition 8
| Disturbia | 71 | Obvious comparisons to “Rear Window” but with some modern twists. Good suspense, little gore. Worth the watch, if you’re in the mood. |
| Dune (miniseries) | 86 | At this length, the story can make sense, unlike the 80’s movie. Though almost all the actors were unknown to me, the stars were excellent, particularly Newman as Paul/Muad’Dib. Easily re-watchable. |
| Stranger Than Fiction | 69 | Hey, here’s a movie with Will Ferrell that I actually liked. The comedy came from how a real person would react to an impossible situation, not from silly Ferrell characterizations. |
| Game | 34 | Not a good movie. One or two interesting concepts, but poorly written and executed. |
| The Mummy | 81 | FX galore; plot moved; Fraser seriously funny |
| Footloose | 74 | Shows its age, but it’s still a fun coming-of-age show. Lithgow’s character is great, and he’s so good at it. |
Friday, December 7, 2007
Setting and Stream
The setting: The backyard of a small house in the midwest on a dreary day in October, surrounded by a fence, painted brown a few years earlier. The grass hasn't been cut in over two weeks. The yard contains a swing set (metal, rusting at the bolts) with a plastic baby swing, a flat metal swing, and a slightly bent metal slide. Near the house, a picnic table, with a garden shears and a work glove sitting on it. An old crabapple tree grows between the table and the swing set.
The characters: a garden snake, a tree squirrel, a toy robot with its head turned backwards, and a squirt gun.
And now: what sort of story to build? Fable? Children's book? Fantasy? Allegory? Sci-fi? The fable only needs the snake and the squirrel, I think.
Before I mentioned the characters, the story could have been a standard realistic novel. What if, instead of characters, those items were merely present in the setting?
Stretch, mind, stretch.
And then, write.
The characters: a garden snake, a tree squirrel, a toy robot with its head turned backwards, and a squirt gun.
And now: what sort of story to build? Fable? Children's book? Fantasy? Allegory? Sci-fi? The fable only needs the snake and the squirrel, I think.
Before I mentioned the characters, the story could have been a standard realistic novel. What if, instead of characters, those items were merely present in the setting?
Stretch, mind, stretch.
And then, write.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
A White Christmas? It might happen!
I suspect I'm not alone in this: when I picture Christmas, I picture snow. Most people I know would prefer a "white Christmas," and you'd think that Minnesota would offer one almost every year. I don't have statistics, but it feels like we have snow on the ground fewer than half the Christmases of recent years. Maybe I should send an e-mail to my local weather forecasters and ask for the real information.
Anyway, on Saturday, December 1, 2007, we got hit with a storm that laid down 4-6 inches of snow, then covered it with a layer of ice. On the 4th, we got another 4-6 inches. I hear we might get more today, and possibly Saturday, as well. The extended forecast keeps us below freezing for the next week, at least.
While I know we'll be tired of the cold by February, I am very happy to have it now, protecting our snow. Christmas is special no matter what the weather, but there's something extra special about a snow-covered Christmas.
I think I'll attach a photo to show how beautiful the snow can be at our house. It's almost three years old, but after a nice heavy snowfall, this is what our backyard looks like. Now, how could I not want that for Christmas?
Once we get both trees decorated, maybe I'll post a picture of them, too; especially the one in the sun room, where you can see the snow through the windows.
Anyway, on Saturday, December 1, 2007, we got hit with a storm that laid down 4-6 inches of snow, then covered it with a layer of ice. On the 4th, we got another 4-6 inches. I hear we might get more today, and possibly Saturday, as well. The extended forecast keeps us below freezing for the next week, at least.
While I know we'll be tired of the cold by February, I am very happy to have it now, protecting our snow. Christmas is special no matter what the weather, but there's something extra special about a snow-covered Christmas.
I think I'll attach a photo to show how beautiful the snow can be at our house. It's almost three years old, but after a nice heavy snowfall, this is what our backyard looks like. Now, how could I not want that for Christmas?
Once we get both trees decorated, maybe I'll post a picture of them, too; especially the one in the sun room, where you can see the snow through the windows.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Too many topics
A very miscellaneous day - can't focus on any one topic to do it justice.
Always a father: No matter how old they are, and how independent, it's clear I will always want to step in and find a way to help when one of my children is encountering difficulty. Unfortunately, for some situations, I shouldn't step in, and in others there is just nothing that can be done. But my ear is always here, and so is my shoulder.
Archetypes and writing: As a novice "writer wannabe" I understand that there are formulae which can be used to build a story. However, I've never studied them. Then, this week, as I'm in the midst of watching "Tin Man" I read Mark Rosewater's column. This week, he describes the archetype of "The Hero's Journey" and it fit exactly what I was seeing in the mini-series! So now I need to find a book that tells me about this, and I bet Mike knows one (or more.) Rosewater points me to Joseph Campbell, and I have been intrigued by him since I saw portions of a Bill Moyer program with him. I'll have to look for a book.
Dreams and fiction: Over the weekend I had a (nearly) unique experience. While dreaming, I was simultaneously the main character from a novel I've always wanted to write and myself, the author, above the action, thinking about how to tell/craft/change the story so that it would be better. I have lost some of what was in the it (as I always seem to do, the longer I go without telling/writing/remembering the dream) but I think I have some of the best parts in my head. Now, will I get to writing them down, just in case I ever actually put the story together more fully?
Music: "Christmas at Luther" was excellent again this year. I think, if I buy a few more years of the CDs, I will have choral versions of the best parts of "The Messiah" and congregational or choral versions of the best Christmas hymns. I am in full "Christmas music mode" at work and home. Though it's very "country," the song "The Christmas Shoes" always gets to me. And, the more I listen to them, the more enjoyment I get from the rock-ish versions of Christmas songs from Trans-Siberian Orchestra and WOW Christmas.
Games: Super Mario Galaxy is fun! I don't know how I'd succeed without Sherry playing the support role. Excellent for us! In related game news, I have not had time to build as many Magic decks as I'd like, but since I will have a chance to play Magic with Paul in a couple weeks, I hope to get some deck biuding done this weekend.
Gifts: It always happens. I want to spend lots of money on my kids and Sherry for Christmas. Restraint! Must practice restraint!
Always a father: No matter how old they are, and how independent, it's clear I will always want to step in and find a way to help when one of my children is encountering difficulty. Unfortunately, for some situations, I shouldn't step in, and in others there is just nothing that can be done. But my ear is always here, and so is my shoulder.
Archetypes and writing: As a novice "writer wannabe" I understand that there are formulae which can be used to build a story. However, I've never studied them. Then, this week, as I'm in the midst of watching "Tin Man" I read Mark Rosewater's column. This week, he describes the archetype of "The Hero's Journey" and it fit exactly what I was seeing in the mini-series! So now I need to find a book that tells me about this, and I bet Mike knows one (or more.) Rosewater points me to Joseph Campbell, and I have been intrigued by him since I saw portions of a Bill Moyer program with him. I'll have to look for a book.
Dreams and fiction: Over the weekend I had a (nearly) unique experience. While dreaming, I was simultaneously the main character from a novel I've always wanted to write and myself, the author, above the action, thinking about how to tell/craft/change the story so that it would be better. I have lost some of what was in the it (as I always seem to do, the longer I go without telling/writing/remembering the dream) but I think I have some of the best parts in my head. Now, will I get to writing them down, just in case I ever actually put the story together more fully?
Music: "Christmas at Luther" was excellent again this year. I think, if I buy a few more years of the CDs, I will have choral versions of the best parts of "The Messiah" and congregational or choral versions of the best Christmas hymns. I am in full "Christmas music mode" at work and home. Though it's very "country," the song "The Christmas Shoes" always gets to me. And, the more I listen to them, the more enjoyment I get from the rock-ish versions of Christmas songs from Trans-Siberian Orchestra and WOW Christmas.
Games: Super Mario Galaxy is fun! I don't know how I'd succeed without Sherry playing the support role. Excellent for us! In related game news, I have not had time to build as many Magic decks as I'd like, but since I will have a chance to play Magic with Paul in a couple weeks, I hope to get some deck biuding done this weekend.
Gifts: It always happens. I want to spend lots of money on my kids and Sherry for Christmas. Restraint! Must practice restraint!
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Preparations Begin
On Sunday, the Christmas tree went up (the balsam.) Last night, I strung the lights and we hung a few ornaments. Tonight I think we'll put up the other tree in the sun room.
When I arrived home yesterday, I was frustrated with the waste of time associated with trying to move to a new laptop at work. But then Sherry asked that I put the lights on the tree. What a cure! Put on the Christmas music, get my hands sappy stringing lights through a fresh tree, take in the aroma of pine: that's a good three-step recipe for dealing with exasperation!
And then, of course, the "Heroes" finale for 2007. And part two of "Tin Man." The day got better once I was at home.
Then today I went to Best Buy and did some gift shopping. I love Advent.
When I arrived home yesterday, I was frustrated with the waste of time associated with trying to move to a new laptop at work. But then Sherry asked that I put the lights on the tree. What a cure! Put on the Christmas music, get my hands sappy stringing lights through a fresh tree, take in the aroma of pine: that's a good three-step recipe for dealing with exasperation!
And then, of course, the "Heroes" finale for 2007. And part two of "Tin Man." The day got better once I was at home.
Then today I went to Best Buy and did some gift shopping. I love Advent.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Goodbye, T41
I've been using an IBM T41 Thinkpad for a couple of years now -- as my "work" computer. I've just received a new Lenovo T60 as its replacement, so I am in the process of doing the migration.
Before the T41, I can't even remember the model number for the old clunky laptop I had. The T41 has been a great upgrade from that, but it is memory constrained for the applications I need to run on a daily basis. And, because it goes with me everywhere, it has a bunch of personal stuff on it, too: music, photos, Christmas lists, game data and the like.
I had to set aside my Friday afternoon for the transfer, and it looks like it will take the full afternoon. Maybe more. I'll be fortunate to get all the data and applications back in place by Monday.
Man, I hope I don't lose "The World's Largest Dungeon." And that I can find all the patches I need to get HoMM3 to work again on XP.
Ooooh. The wizard helping me find data to transfer has crossed the 60% scanned mark. I'd better pay attention!
Storm heading this direction. "Christmas at Luther" tomorrow night, and we will have to drive through sleet and snow to get there. But we'll make it.
I'd better pay attention!
Before the T41, I can't even remember the model number for the old clunky laptop I had. The T41 has been a great upgrade from that, but it is memory constrained for the applications I need to run on a daily basis. And, because it goes with me everywhere, it has a bunch of personal stuff on it, too: music, photos, Christmas lists, game data and the like.
I had to set aside my Friday afternoon for the transfer, and it looks like it will take the full afternoon. Maybe more. I'll be fortunate to get all the data and applications back in place by Monday.
Man, I hope I don't lose "The World's Largest Dungeon." And that I can find all the patches I need to get HoMM3 to work again on XP.
Ooooh. The wizard helping me find data to transfer has crossed the 60% scanned mark. I'd better pay attention!
Storm heading this direction. "Christmas at Luther" tomorrow night, and we will have to drive through sleet and snow to get there. But we'll make it.
I'd better pay attention!
Thursday, November 29, 2007
The End, and the Approach of the Beginning
Revelation 22: 1 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb...
The imagery of Revelation is so vivid. As Advent approaches, the readings in our weekly services often come from this apocalyptic book. I've studied it more than once, and it always seems to have more meaning each time. Tonight, I just felt like reading the final chapter again, to prepare myself for the start of the new church year.I love Advent, and I like "celebrating" Christmas all through the Advent season. But Advent means something, in part, because of what is promised in John's account of his visionary encounter with God.
Revelation 22: 12 "Behold, I am coming soon!..."
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.
Revelation 22: 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.
It's a cycle. The predictability is comforting. The promise is there, whether we believe or not.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
What a December for Movies!
We have a great December coming, with four movies I would like to see in theaters:
The Golden Compass
National Treasure: Book of Secrets
I Am Legend
Sweeney Todd
Based on what I've seen, I can't believe any of them will disappoint.
The Golden Compass
National Treasure: Book of Secrets
I Am Legend
Sweeney Todd
Based on what I've seen, I can't believe any of them will disappoint.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Preoccupied
I'm back. Spain was pretty darn good, despite being a business trip. The constant jet lag is now behind me, and so is overeating at Thanksgiving. Now we begin the stretch known as "I can't wait for Christmas." With Thanksgiving being as early as it can be, this is the longest such stretch I've had in years, but at least my first day of vacation is the 19th, so I am only 16 working days from it.
Between now and then, many concerts, a party, some shopping. And Christmas music; lots of Christmas music.
Today, I had intended to write something more meaningful, but it turns out I'm preoccupied, so this will have to do.
Between now and then, many concerts, a party, some shopping. And Christmas music; lots of Christmas music.
Today, I had intended to write something more meaningful, but it turns out I'm preoccupied, so this will have to do.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Returning with photos
Though I was on a business trip, and though I am usually reluctant to venture away from my hotel (it's a weakness; I admit it) on this trip I did take advantage of the beautiful weather and the hours before and after meetings to see some sights and taste some food. This afternoon, despite having our meetings end later than expected, I went with a couple of colleagues to see a couple of cathedrals and some other landmarks. We also ate at a very good tapas restaurant, and tonight I got to try octopus and garlic mushrooms, as well as have a Spanish crème brûlée. I was so full by the time dessert arrived that I couldn't even eat it all.
Oh, and I had a beer. I think that makes, let's see, ummmmm, yep, one this year so far. But we had been walking for quite some time, and they just don't seem to have Diet Pepsi around here, so I bought a beer.
Anyway, because I got to see some sights, I took some photos. This is good, and it proves that I am still me -- if I go somewhere, I take photos.
And now I must get some sleep before my 5:30 AM wake-up call. Another long day in the air awaits.
Buenas noches!
Oh, and I had a beer. I think that makes, let's see, ummmmm, yep, one this year so far. But we had been walking for quite some time, and they just don't seem to have Diet Pepsi around here, so I bought a beer.
Anyway, because I got to see some sights, I took some photos. This is good, and it proves that I am still me -- if I go somewhere, I take photos.
And now I must get some sleep before my 5:30 AM wake-up call. Another long day in the air awaits.
Buenas noches!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
So much for my Spanish
Here I am in Barcelona. So far, my impression is quite good. I liked the food we ate last night (Tapas - a style of food - and paella - a dish of rice mixed with other things.) The city is clean and bright, and I can see the Mediterranean from my 19th floor hotel window.
I had hoped that some of my 28-year-old Spanish would return to me, and a smattering has. However, the common language being spoken and written here in Barcelona is Catalan, which is similar enough to Spanish to be somewhat recognizable, but it's not the same.
Did you know that, if you're in Barcelona and you bring up Google in Internet Explorer, it takes to you a Spanish version of Google? (It redirects you to http://www.google.es) I wonder what it uses to recognize your location..... hmmmm....
Oh, I might as well mention -- I'm blogging today (Sunday) because this is a work day for me. And because I think I might not get to blog for most of the rest of the week. Tomorrow's work day will be very busy, and unless I am quite mistaken, I will be far too consumed (and surrounded) by customers to get close to my blog.
Do you know how to tell your hotel room is really expensive? If the contents of the mini-bar are "free" then you're paying for them in your room rate!
When something is free when you'd normally have to pay for it, is it "complementary" or "complimentary?" Without looking it up, I'd go with the "i" version. Now, to look it up.... (If dictionary.com takes me to a Spanish dictionary, I'm not going to have much luck...)
Yep, it's "complimentary." The "i" as in "nice" -- it's nice to receive compliments and it's nice to receive things for free.
I am hoping to have some time on Monday afternoon to go see a cathedral or two in the center of the city. Today I've had time to walk down to the Mediterranean and get a few photos. And there is a drum corps doing a show in the plaza next to my hotel -- which is quite cool, since I'm not trying to sleep.
Adios!
I had hoped that some of my 28-year-old Spanish would return to me, and a smattering has. However, the common language being spoken and written here in Barcelona is Catalan, which is similar enough to Spanish to be somewhat recognizable, but it's not the same.
Did you know that, if you're in Barcelona and you bring up Google in Internet Explorer, it takes to you a Spanish version of Google? (It redirects you to http://www.google.es) I wonder what it uses to recognize your location..... hmmmm....
Oh, I might as well mention -- I'm blogging today (Sunday) because this is a work day for me. And because I think I might not get to blog for most of the rest of the week. Tomorrow's work day will be very busy, and unless I am quite mistaken, I will be far too consumed (and surrounded) by customers to get close to my blog.
Do you know how to tell your hotel room is really expensive? If the contents of the mini-bar are "free" then you're paying for them in your room rate!
When something is free when you'd normally have to pay for it, is it "complementary" or "complimentary?" Without looking it up, I'd go with the "i" version. Now, to look it up.... (If dictionary.com takes me to a Spanish dictionary, I'm not going to have much luck...)
Yep, it's "complimentary." The "i" as in "nice" -- it's nice to receive compliments and it's nice to receive things for free.
I am hoping to have some time on Monday afternoon to go see a cathedral or two in the center of the city. Today I've had time to walk down to the Mediterranean and get a few photos. And there is a drum corps doing a show in the plaza next to my hotel -- which is quite cool, since I'm not trying to sleep.
Adios!
Friday, November 16, 2007
Before I go
Well, I'm off to Barcelona for business. By the time I get back, the Luther kids will be back, Leah will be on Thanksgiving break, and I understand we might even have snow on the ground.
While there is a great deal of work to get done between now and then, and I will lose much sleep crossing the many time zones twice in four days, at the other end of it, I get a break with my family. So despite the daunting schedule I face, I will remind myself: "This, too, shall pass."
And when it has passed, I get to spend time with those I love.
Happy travels, one and all.
And to my family, "I love you, and I'll see you soon."
While there is a great deal of work to get done between now and then, and I will lose much sleep crossing the many time zones twice in four days, at the other end of it, I get a break with my family. So despite the daunting schedule I face, I will remind myself: "This, too, shall pass."
And when it has passed, I get to spend time with those I love.
Happy travels, one and all.
And to my family, "I love you, and I'll see you soon."
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Christmas List
I've been encouraged to write down the list of things I have told people I want for Christmas.
"Oh, nothing. I have everything I need."
OK, now that that's out of the way, here are other things I've said:
So, there, that's what I've thought of so far. Well, leaving aside a gift idea Sherry had that I think she'll get me, so I will not mention it, for fear of getting two.
Now I can focus on the real fun -- what to get for other people! Gifts for David, William, Walter and Nora are already purchased; I think Mom & Dad are even taken care of. On to Sherry & the kids!
"Oh, nothing. I have everything I need."
OK, now that that's out of the way, here are other things I've said:
- "Worship" - CD; Michael W Smith
- "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer" - DVD; aka "Fantastic 4 II"
- "Spiderman 3" - DVD
- Button-down shirt with Vikings or Twins logo on the pocket
- Poster-sized reprints of some of our Yosemite photos. Halfdome through the trees. Vernal Falls. Yosemite Valley.
- Poster-sized reprints of a Hawai'i photo, or two.
- Duel Decks: Goblins vs. Elves (a link) - OK, this one is new, but I just saw it and it looks cool. Yes, I'm sure I could probably build the decks, but it would be fun to have this version.
- DVDs from my list of DVDs I want, near the bottom of my DVD page.
- Any book you're wild about and would recommend to me.
So, there, that's what I've thought of so far. Well, leaving aside a gift idea Sherry had that I think she'll get me, so I will not mention it, for fear of getting two.
Now I can focus on the real fun -- what to get for other people! Gifts for David, William, Walter and Nora are already purchased; I think Mom & Dad are even taken care of. On to Sherry & the kids!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Super Mario Galaxy is here
I have just a few minutes. That's only enough time to say that we bought "Super Mario Galaxy" yesterday and put in a couple hours of play time into it.
It's going to be good! Wow, does it twist your mind! Walk upside down, sideways, angled, jump, spin, pound, fly, float -- and the center of gravity changes. I might just get headaches before I get used to it.
Bright, brilliant, funny, fun. My first impression is good.
And wild!
It's going to be good! Wow, does it twist your mind! Walk upside down, sideways, angled, jump, spin, pound, fly, float -- and the center of gravity changes. I might just get headaches before I get used to it.
Bright, brilliant, funny, fun. My first impression is good.
And wild!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Parents who must Control
I cannot understand this: what desired result do parents hope to achieve by attempting to control their adult child which is not immediately rendered impossible by the very act of attempted control?
Require your child to be home on a school break, rather than be at the home of the one he loves: this is done so that you can see him? Immediate goal accomplished. Once he leaves home, how likely is it that he will want to return for visits? Not likely. The ultimate goal of seeing your child more often is defeated. Make it clear that his loved one is not welcome at your home on Christmas Eve: only the immediate family may attend. Immediate goal again accomplished. Yet, once they are married, will he and his wife ever feel welcome? Not likely. The cut you inflict today will be a life-long scar. Do you understand? Either you do, and you don't care, or you don't and you should. It's in your best interest.
Tell your daughter again and again that she should wait another year before getting married, argue and drag your feet on wedding preparations: potentially you will wear her down and she will agree to delay. And then, for the rest of your life, she will remember your negative attitude and your controlling nature whenever she thinks of her wedding. Lifelong resentment, which will affect your relationship and the memory she has of one of the most important days of her life. And this is but one example of how mothers (especially) insert themselves into wedding preparations and harm the very person they love.
Parents must provide some level of stability and control early in the lives of their children. But as the children mature, we must let go and provide the basis for a life-long supportive and loving relationship. Some of the things children will do will be mistakes, and some will merely be different from what we would want for ourselves. We can advise, if advice is requested or welcome, but we must not attempt to control.
It's not only good for the children -- it's also good for us. We will be more welcome into our children's adult lives if we have shown them the respect of letting them grow away from us.
Require your child to be home on a school break, rather than be at the home of the one he loves: this is done so that you can see him? Immediate goal accomplished. Once he leaves home, how likely is it that he will want to return for visits? Not likely. The ultimate goal of seeing your child more often is defeated. Make it clear that his loved one is not welcome at your home on Christmas Eve: only the immediate family may attend. Immediate goal again accomplished. Yet, once they are married, will he and his wife ever feel welcome? Not likely. The cut you inflict today will be a life-long scar. Do you understand? Either you do, and you don't care, or you don't and you should. It's in your best interest.
Tell your daughter again and again that she should wait another year before getting married, argue and drag your feet on wedding preparations: potentially you will wear her down and she will agree to delay. And then, for the rest of your life, she will remember your negative attitude and your controlling nature whenever she thinks of her wedding. Lifelong resentment, which will affect your relationship and the memory she has of one of the most important days of her life. And this is but one example of how mothers (especially) insert themselves into wedding preparations and harm the very person they love.
Parents must provide some level of stability and control early in the lives of their children. But as the children mature, we must let go and provide the basis for a life-long supportive and loving relationship. Some of the things children will do will be mistakes, and some will merely be different from what we would want for ourselves. We can advise, if advice is requested or welcome, but we must not attempt to control.
It's not only good for the children -- it's also good for us. We will be more welcome into our children's adult lives if we have shown them the respect of letting them grow away from us.
Monday, November 12, 2007
The technology driving "The Strike"
The Writers Guild of America is on strike. Most of us who watch TV already know, or will know soon.
The most easily identifiable point of contention is the "DVD Royalty" issue. As Lucas points out in his blog, and has been reported widely, the 4-cents per DVD royalty the writers receive is tiny, and one proposal was to increase it to 8-cents. Sounds like the writers would be willing to give up that proposal (though I wish they wouldn't) if other concessions can be obtained from the studios.
Among them should be wording about royalties no matter how the material is provided to consumers. Why? Because technology is moving faster than any long-term contract can anticipate. No contract that lists only specific technologies will be relevant in 10 years.
For a few years now, industry has been perfecting a technology that will allow the contents of over 30 DVDs to fit onto a thin "chip" that is no larger than a postage stamp. As with all technologies, it could take years to get cheap, or a breakthrough could cause it to be in Wal-Mart in time for Christmas 2008. Similarly, no one used to think we'd be able to stream video content into homes with sufficient quality to rival DVDs, but today it's not only available, it's likely our home computer networks will be able to handle it.
Put those two technologies together and there may be no reason to buy DVDs in the future. We'll be able to download and store libraries of TV shows in something the size of a book, rather than in the bookcases we use today.
If that's coming, then the "per DVD" royalty rate will fade in importance. The artists who create the stories we love need to find a way to get their well-earned compensation no matter how the consumer gets access to them.
If this strike goes on a long time, it will be because of the complexity of the issues (legal and technological) and how that complexity makes it hard for the studios to estimate the effect of any contract on their profit margins.
The most easily identifiable point of contention is the "DVD Royalty" issue. As Lucas points out in his blog, and has been reported widely, the 4-cents per DVD royalty the writers receive is tiny, and one proposal was to increase it to 8-cents. Sounds like the writers would be willing to give up that proposal (though I wish they wouldn't) if other concessions can be obtained from the studios.
Among them should be wording about royalties no matter how the material is provided to consumers. Why? Because technology is moving faster than any long-term contract can anticipate. No contract that lists only specific technologies will be relevant in 10 years.
For a few years now, industry has been perfecting a technology that will allow the contents of over 30 DVDs to fit onto a thin "chip" that is no larger than a postage stamp. As with all technologies, it could take years to get cheap, or a breakthrough could cause it to be in Wal-Mart in time for Christmas 2008. Similarly, no one used to think we'd be able to stream video content into homes with sufficient quality to rival DVDs, but today it's not only available, it's likely our home computer networks will be able to handle it.
Put those two technologies together and there may be no reason to buy DVDs in the future. We'll be able to download and store libraries of TV shows in something the size of a book, rather than in the bookcases we use today.
If that's coming, then the "per DVD" royalty rate will fade in importance. The artists who create the stories we love need to find a way to get their well-earned compensation no matter how the consumer gets access to them.
If this strike goes on a long time, it will be because of the complexity of the issues (legal and technological) and how that complexity makes it hard for the studios to estimate the effect of any contract on their profit margins.
Friday, November 9, 2007
I think I need Lucy today
This has been a good week. I am ending the week with some good news. I don't have any big things going on this weekend. Yet, I feel a little blue.
I'm sure Lucy would have some sage words of advice, and they'd only cost a nickel!
Perhaps I've had such a good (though stressful) week, that this is just a natural let-down. Adrenaline levels are dropping, I'm drinking an non-caffeinated pop, I know that next week will be yet another intense week, and I just want to get to the weekend.
Maybe a run will help me. And a smile from Sherry! I think I'll try one or both of those. I bet my mood will pick up in short order.
Never mind, Lucy. I don't need your services after all. But here's a nickel anyway.
Happy weekend, all!
Thursday, November 8, 2007
User Error
If you read the entry about my MP3-player memory expansion, you know I was frustrated. Even after writing that, I spent quite a bit of time looking around in forums, asking questions online, discussing things with Don (who owns a Sansa player and has a memory expansion card like the one I bought.)
Frustrated, I was going to return it. Don suggested that, as a last resort, I take it to the Geek Squad at Best Buy and see if they knew what was wrong. The Geek Squad guy, after checking to see that the memory card worked in a computer (it did; I had checked) told me he didn't really know anything about them. As he was telling me, he pushed harder on the card than I had ever dared. It went deeper into the player! Oh my! You mean, all this time, after I pushed it to the point where it clicked into place and seemed seated, it wasn't?
That's right! There are two levels of "seated." The first level is not enough! You have to push the card in even more!
And now, it works. I was a silly user. So timid that I might break something, I didn't push hard enough.
I'm so glad I admitted that I might be missing something. Still, the instructions with the card or the player should have shown me how to use it. But now, it works just great. Well, as long as I don't mind loading it with Windows Explorer (and I don't.)
Don, thanks for the suggestion. Geek Squad to the rescue.
Frustrated, I was going to return it. Don suggested that, as a last resort, I take it to the Geek Squad at Best Buy and see if they knew what was wrong. The Geek Squad guy, after checking to see that the memory card worked in a computer (it did; I had checked) told me he didn't really know anything about them. As he was telling me, he pushed harder on the card than I had ever dared. It went deeper into the player! Oh my! You mean, all this time, after I pushed it to the point where it clicked into place and seemed seated, it wasn't?
That's right! There are two levels of "seated." The first level is not enough! You have to push the card in even more!
And now, it works. I was a silly user. So timid that I might break something, I didn't push hard enough.
I'm so glad I admitted that I might be missing something. Still, the instructions with the card or the player should have shown me how to use it. But now, it works just great. Well, as long as I don't mind loading it with Windows Explorer (and I don't.)
Don, thanks for the suggestion. Geek Squad to the rescue.
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Latest Micro-Reviews - Edition 7
Only three movies to review since the last time, but I think I've just given myself a new chore. More on that in a bit. Here are the movies:
This set of films made me decide that my rating system needs adjustment. Once upon a time, I wrote "In general, a movie needs to get above a 70 before I would recommend it, and generally movies in the 70-80 range would carry conditional recommendations -- I'd recommend it if I knew a particular person liked something that the movie provided."
Well, since I've been doing this rating thing for several years now, I have discovered that the range of 70-80 does not give me enough latitude. I've also realized that I see very few movies that are below the "conditional recommendation" level. (I believe I self-select -- most movies I would not recommend are movies I just decide not to see.) Consequently, I leave a lot of room in the lower numbers, and the higher range (especially the 70s and low 80s) gets crowded.
So, I'm modifying my system. From here on out, a movie that I could conditionally recommend can get a rating as low as 50. That being the case, Night at the Museum, with its 62, is still conditionally recommended, but was not as entertaining as Wild Hogs. Both, by the way, are relatively predictable. But since I expect that of comedies, I can still recommend them to some audiences. Night at least had some innovative ideas. Hogs? Not so much. But Hogs made me laugh more.
I don't know that I want to go through my entire list of micro-reviews and update them immediately. Over time, though, I think I'll start rating movies with this modified metric in mind.
| 69 | I laughed. I did. I had low expectations, and I laughed. It was a lighter take on “City Slickers” but with a similar theme. Sometimes Travolta is good, sometimes bad. In this movie, he was both, alternately. I still recommend it for guys in their 40s-50s, and the women who know them. | |
| 62 | Stiller didn’t do his normal character, so that was a positive. They didn’t drag out the premise, and that was nice. A fun, family fantasy. Once. | |
| 82 | Though a bit disconnected, the elements and the atmosphere carry the themes. It’s not as accessible as “Camelot,” darker and more symbolic. I like them both. |
This set of films made me decide that my rating system needs adjustment. Once upon a time, I wrote "In general, a movie needs to get above a 70 before I would recommend it, and generally movies in the 70-80 range would carry conditional recommendations -- I'd recommend it if I knew a particular person liked something that the movie provided."
Well, since I've been doing this rating thing for several years now, I have discovered that the range of 70-80 does not give me enough latitude. I've also realized that I see very few movies that are below the "conditional recommendation" level. (I believe I self-select -- most movies I would not recommend are movies I just decide not to see.) Consequently, I leave a lot of room in the lower numbers, and the higher range (especially the 70s and low 80s) gets crowded.
So, I'm modifying my system. From here on out, a movie that I could conditionally recommend can get a rating as low as 50. That being the case, Night at the Museum, with its 62, is still conditionally recommended, but was not as entertaining as Wild Hogs. Both, by the way, are relatively predictable. But since I expect that of comedies, I can still recommend them to some audiences. Night at least had some innovative ideas. Hogs? Not so much. But Hogs made me laugh more.
I don't know that I want to go through my entire list of micro-reviews and update them immediately. Over time, though, I think I'll start rating movies with this modified metric in mind.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Conversational Tango
If you're leading the witness,
Should I follow?
If you have a hidden agenda,
Do I let you know that I know?
If you're wrong and aren't aware,
Would I set you straight?
If you only want half of the truth,
Can I trust you with any?
Should I follow?
If you have a hidden agenda,
Do I let you know that I know?
If you're wrong and aren't aware,
Would I set you straight?
If you only want half of the truth,
Can I trust you with any?
Monday, November 5, 2007
Star Trek: Invasion
Just a few days ago I finished the fourth book in the "Star Trek: Invasion" series. I recommend it. Highly.
The first book in the series, "First Strike" is #79 of the Original Series books, and tells the story of Captain Kirk's Enterprise when it encounters a fearsome new group of species. The other three books connect to the first, with the crew of the Enterprise D continuing the story in "The Soldiers of Fear," Benjamin Sisko and the Deep Space Nine inhabitants taking a turn in "Time's Enemy," and finally the mixed Maquis/Starfleet crew of Voyager concluding the saga in "The Final Fury."
Each book can be read on its own, but the entire story arc fits well, without disrupting any of the well-established mythos.
Each book is written by its own author, but clearly they worked together enough to set a common back story, and a clearly defined set of information which would be made known in each book. It's quite an achievement. I'm pretty confident that any scifi fan will like this series.
I certainly did.
The first book in the series, "First Strike" is #79 of the Original Series books, and tells the story of Captain Kirk's Enterprise when it encounters a fearsome new group of species. The other three books connect to the first, with the crew of the Enterprise D continuing the story in "The Soldiers of Fear," Benjamin Sisko and the Deep Space Nine inhabitants taking a turn in "Time's Enemy," and finally the mixed Maquis/Starfleet crew of Voyager concluding the saga in "The Final Fury."
Each book can be read on its own, but the entire story arc fits well, without disrupting any of the well-established mythos.
Each book is written by its own author, but clearly they worked together enough to set a common back story, and a clearly defined set of information which would be made known in each book. It's quite an achievement. I'm pretty confident that any scifi fan will like this series.
I certainly did.
Friday, November 2, 2007
The Places I've Seen
I have been thinking about writing a Statement of Purpose for this blog. It would tell people what they'll read about if they visit often. Having written it, I could put a link to it right near the top of the sidebar. I just might do it.
But not today. Today, some photos of places I've been.
Norway
Yosemite
Rochester
Seattle
Enjoy! Have a great weekend.
All pictures are mine, so I hold the copyright.
But not today. Today, some photos of places I've been.
Norway
Yosemite
Rochester
Seattle
Enjoy! Have a great weekend.
All pictures are mine, so I hold the copyright.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Arlo & Janis
If you look along the side of my blog, you will see a set of links for Comic Strip sites. At the top of the list is the link to Jimmy Johnson's "Arlo & Janis" website.
I read a lot of comic strips. I'll give most anything a try. A&J is my favorite, among a decent-sized list of excellent current strips.
Why? Well, there are many reasons, but the one which prompted me to write today is this: the wonderful depiction of A&J's romantic life.
I know it's not unique among strips to show married couples who like each other. Hi & Lois, Blondie & Dagwood, Moose & Molly, Sally & Ted (Forth) -- clearly those couples get along well. But of those other strips, how many even hint at a "love life?" The Forths do, every once in a great while. Now and again, a few other strips will touch on it.
In A&J it's a recurring theme, though not an overpowering one. Arlo clearly finds Janis attractive, and shows it. Janis reciprocates. Since the primary interactions that drive the strip are those between this married couple, it's just so "honest" to see the "love life" aspect come up occasionally. And it's always in character with the fun, funny, intelligent, flawed, good-hearted people they are.
If you follow the link to the A&J page today, you can click on the strip to see part of a series in this vein. Every strip is funny, but every strip is real. (If you follow the link some other time, well, who knows what you'll get. Jimmy posts old strips on a regular basis.) Here's a link to the beginning of the short series, if you want it later (I hope it stays active, even after the imminent redesign of the site.)
I read a lot of comic strips. I'll give most anything a try. A&J is my favorite, among a decent-sized list of excellent current strips.
Why? Well, there are many reasons, but the one which prompted me to write today is this: the wonderful depiction of A&J's romantic life.
I know it's not unique among strips to show married couples who like each other. Hi & Lois, Blondie & Dagwood, Moose & Molly, Sally & Ted (Forth) -- clearly those couples get along well. But of those other strips, how many even hint at a "love life?" The Forths do, every once in a great while. Now and again, a few other strips will touch on it.
In A&J it's a recurring theme, though not an overpowering one. Arlo clearly finds Janis attractive, and shows it. Janis reciprocates. Since the primary interactions that drive the strip are those between this married couple, it's just so "honest" to see the "love life" aspect come up occasionally. And it's always in character with the fun, funny, intelligent, flawed, good-hearted people they are.
If you follow the link to the A&J page today, you can click on the strip to see part of a series in this vein. Every strip is funny, but every strip is real. (If you follow the link some other time, well, who knows what you'll get. Jimmy posts old strips on a regular basis.) Here's a link to the beginning of the short series, if you want it later (I hope it stays active, even after the imminent redesign of the site.)
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
"Going Home"
Today a friend of ours, Becky Monson, died quietly in her room at the hospice. As Karla put it:
"Becky Monson received her crown of glory this morning around 5:30 A.M. She fought the good fight, kept the faith, and WON the race and for that we say, 'Congratulations, Becky! And, thank you, Jesus!'"
We will miss her, of course. The longing to see our departed loved ones feels like a hole that we can never fill. Yet completion and reunion await. This is our Hope. This is our Faith.
Becky and her husband Todd were in our church choir until they moved away a few years back. While she was still here, and long before she got sick, Becky told us that she wanted "Going Home" sung at her funeral. Tonight, we will rehearse it in choir, and we will honor that request at the funeral service on Sunday.
Tears are certain. Sadness at loss, at separation, at mortality. Yet, in the midst of that, the beauty of the music will remind us of the joy of Glory, of Forgiveness, of Eternity.
Goodbye, Becky, for now.
"Becky Monson received her crown of glory this morning around 5:30 A.M. She fought the good fight, kept the faith, and WON the race and for that we say, 'Congratulations, Becky! And, thank you, Jesus!'"
We will miss her, of course. The longing to see our departed loved ones feels like a hole that we can never fill. Yet completion and reunion await. This is our Hope. This is our Faith.
Becky and her husband Todd were in our church choir until they moved away a few years back. While she was still here, and long before she got sick, Becky told us that she wanted "Going Home" sung at her funeral. Tonight, we will rehearse it in choir, and we will honor that request at the funeral service on Sunday.
Tears are certain. Sadness at loss, at separation, at mortality. Yet, in the midst of that, the beauty of the music will remind us of the joy of Glory, of Forgiveness, of Eternity.
Goodbye, Becky, for now.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Supreme Matters?
Mike and his coworkers have been very interested to know whether the Supreme Court would decide to hear the (final) appeal by Exxon regarding the damages assessed for the Valdez incident. According to yesterday's news, the High Court has decided to hear the case.
I do not pretend to be a legal expert. Having said that, it's strange to think that the S.C. should find something worthy of reviewing here. As portrayed in the media, the case seems to be about whether Exxon should have to pay punitive damages, and if so, how much. As a layperson, it's hard to see how this is a question of constitutional law.
One of the points Exxon's spokespeople mention is this:
"It is also important for the Supreme Court to uphold long-standing maritime law that provides that ship-owners are not liable for punitive damages based upon conduct by the ship-master who disregarded the owner's rules and policies."
So, court after court found reason not to uphold this law, because they were soft-hearted? I'm not buying it.
Yet, now that it has reached this level, there is a chance that the business-friendly court could actually overturn the ruling, and/or reduce the damages. It's weird that the court, which is im place to protect "inalienable" rights, should be thought of as "business-friendly." Again, as a lay person, it seems like the "rights" should be constant.
This is hardly the most sensitive issue the court will face this term, but since I know Mike, and Mike has a stake in it, it's one I will watch.
I do not pretend to be a legal expert. Having said that, it's strange to think that the S.C. should find something worthy of reviewing here. As portrayed in the media, the case seems to be about whether Exxon should have to pay punitive damages, and if so, how much. As a layperson, it's hard to see how this is a question of constitutional law.
One of the points Exxon's spokespeople mention is this:
"It is also important for the Supreme Court to uphold long-standing maritime law that provides that ship-owners are not liable for punitive damages based upon conduct by the ship-master who disregarded the owner's rules and policies."
So, court after court found reason not to uphold this law, because they were soft-hearted? I'm not buying it.
Yet, now that it has reached this level, there is a chance that the business-friendly court could actually overturn the ruling, and/or reduce the damages. It's weird that the court, which is im place to protect "inalienable" rights, should be thought of as "business-friendly." Again, as a lay person, it seems like the "rights" should be constant.
This is hardly the most sensitive issue the court will face this term, but since I know Mike, and Mike has a stake in it, it's one I will watch.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Latest Micro-Reviews - Edition 6
It was a movie-watching weekend. Once we had seen "Snow Angel" again on Friday night, and had a chance to hang out with family, we watched the standard Friday night fare ("Stargate: Atlantis" [weak episode], and "What Not To Wear" [very frustrating 'contributor']) and decided we really needed some movies for our Saturday and Sunday. And that's what being "MVP" subscribers at Hollywood Video gets us -- a chance to get lots of movies on the spur of the moment.
So, here's the latest batch. The only great film in the bunch is "Raiders ..." which we watched as we started putting together a very hard Grand Canyon puzzle.
To be fair: I gave "American Beauty" a 79 rating. I know, it's supposed to be this great film. And I completely understand that the performances were outstanding. I just don't react well to movies that are trying hard to fill me with despair, unless they give me a chance for hope. So, looking back on a few of the movies we've seen recently, it's far more unusual that I gave "The Hours" a 90 than that I gave "Little Children" or "Pan's Labyrinth" a 70-something. If I'm depressed after seeing a film, it's not likely to get a high rating. But that's just me. Your mileage may vary.
As I mentioned when I first started reviewing movies in my blog, ratings between 70-79 usually mean I would give them conditional recommendations.
If you like high-angst drama, bump "Little Children" up on the list. If you can't stand watching people who have "perfect lives" wishing they had more, don't see it.
If you can suspend disbelief, or you remember what it was like to be a child, and you don't mind some harsh reality mixed with your fantasy, see "Pan's Labyrinth."
If you haven't ever read the comic strip, and you like funny, light humor with great animation, "Over the Hedge" is better than many. If you're a fan of the strip, and think RJ should be more like Raymond Barone with a hint of George Carlin, then you might be disappointed.
Next up for viewing: "Wild Hogs" and "Night at the Museum." I'll bet neither of those tries to depress me. But with motorcycles in one and Ben Stiller in the other, it might happen anyway.
So, here's the latest batch. The only great film in the bunch is "Raiders ..." which we watched as we started putting together a very hard Grand Canyon puzzle.
| 73 | Pretty fun. I laughed a few times. Not quite as edgy as the comic strip, but fun characters that were similar enough for a fan. | |
| 78 | This was a nice mystery/drama/suspense story. They built the plot well, and the characters made sense in it. | |
| 93 | Seriously fun! Never stops moving. An achievement and a classic from the day it was released. | |
| 79 | I didn’t know anything about this movie, other than not to expect a fun fantasy. So I didn’t know it was foreign (Spanish). Moving story, more fantasy than I expected, intense. Worth it, if you want some serious fare. | |
| 75 | Reminiscent of “American Beauty” with its look at the lives of disconnected suburban “adults.” You could picture every plot point happening, but it still wasn’t predictable, because life isn’t. This is not for everyone. |
To be fair: I gave "American Beauty" a 79 rating. I know, it's supposed to be this great film. And I completely understand that the performances were outstanding. I just don't react well to movies that are trying hard to fill me with despair, unless they give me a chance for hope. So, looking back on a few of the movies we've seen recently, it's far more unusual that I gave "The Hours" a 90 than that I gave "Little Children" or "Pan's Labyrinth" a 70-something. If I'm depressed after seeing a film, it's not likely to get a high rating. But that's just me. Your mileage may vary.
As I mentioned when I first started reviewing movies in my blog, ratings between 70-79 usually mean I would give them conditional recommendations.
If you like high-angst drama, bump "Little Children" up on the list. If you can't stand watching people who have "perfect lives" wishing they had more, don't see it.
If you can suspend disbelief, or you remember what it was like to be a child, and you don't mind some harsh reality mixed with your fantasy, see "Pan's Labyrinth."
If you haven't ever read the comic strip, and you like funny, light humor with great animation, "Over the Hedge" is better than many. If you're a fan of the strip, and think RJ should be more like Raymond Barone with a hint of George Carlin, then you might be disappointed.
Next up for viewing: "Wild Hogs" and "Night at the Museum." I'll bet neither of those tries to depress me. But with motorcycles in one and Ben Stiller in the other, it might happen anyway.
Friday, October 26, 2007
My daughter, the actress
Last night was opening night for "Snow Angel." I knew almost nothing about the plot ahead of seeing it. Leah has the role of "Eva" -- a mysterious girl who shows up during an extended snow storm.
We've known for some months that Leah's plan is to be an actress. This is the first significant role she's had since then. I watched the show last night with that in mind, and I can really see it. "Eva" has many different sides, so Leah gets to show some range, and I think she handled it beautifully. Quiet, funny, angry, understanding, melancholy, wistful -- she gets to do all of these.
I've known Sarah was going to be a teacher for years, and I've been able to picture that quite easily. She's always had a teacher's demeanor, and she'll be great. I won't get to see her teach, but I can imagine it, and so I'm preemptively proud of her and the work she'll do. I've seen Lucas in action at work, and I've heard him talk with excitement about programming projects, so it has been clear he'll make a good programmer. Adam's grown into a very empathetic and calm young man, and though I haven't seen him with his autistic charges, I can certainly picture him doing that job well, and we've been told he's really suited for it.
But while I've seen Leah in plays, I had not had a real chance to see her perform since she told us how serious she was about this career. I can see it now. I'm happy for her. And I'm so proud. I can't take credit for her work, but I will gladly bask in the glow which emanates from her when she does what she loves, and does it well.
Congratulations, daughter! I'll look forward to seeing you perform again, soon!
__________________________________________________________
Reason #12 for having children: The more people you love, the more joy you get to share.
We've known for some months that Leah's plan is to be an actress. This is the first significant role she's had since then. I watched the show last night with that in mind, and I can really see it. "Eva" has many different sides, so Leah gets to show some range, and I think she handled it beautifully. Quiet, funny, angry, understanding, melancholy, wistful -- she gets to do all of these.
I've known Sarah was going to be a teacher for years, and I've been able to picture that quite easily. She's always had a teacher's demeanor, and she'll be great. I won't get to see her teach, but I can imagine it, and so I'm preemptively proud of her and the work she'll do. I've seen Lucas in action at work, and I've heard him talk with excitement about programming projects, so it has been clear he'll make a good programmer. Adam's grown into a very empathetic and calm young man, and though I haven't seen him with his autistic charges, I can certainly picture him doing that job well, and we've been told he's really suited for it.
But while I've seen Leah in plays, I had not had a real chance to see her perform since she told us how serious she was about this career. I can see it now. I'm happy for her. And I'm so proud. I can't take credit for her work, but I will gladly bask in the glow which emanates from her when she does what she loves, and does it well.
Congratulations, daughter! I'll look forward to seeing you perform again, soon!
__________________________________________________________
Reason #12 for having children: The more people you love, the more joy you get to share.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Today, I write an e-mail
This is a strange phenomenon.
My blog is not widely read. Yet I post to it every day, writing as if someone will read it.
At the same time I know some of my friends would read an email if I sent one to them every day. Even if it contained the same content as my blog. In fact, so would my kids, I bet.
So, despite the fact that this medium provides the potential for me to communicate with more people, the reality is that I communicate with fewer.
Yes, I wish I could get my friends & family to develop the habit of looking here daily (or regularly.) But I can't. They use their time, and develop their habits, in ways that suite them. It's not my game, so I need to play by their rules.
So, today, I will e-mail.
But I won't stop posting. This is a good habit. And, incredibly, I see that Russ has actually found my blog somehow! [Welcome, Russ! How are you?] Without the blog, who knows how long it would have been before he and I were in contact again.
My blog is not widely read. Yet I post to it every day, writing as if someone will read it.
At the same time I know some of my friends would read an email if I sent one to them every day. Even if it contained the same content as my blog. In fact, so would my kids, I bet.
So, despite the fact that this medium provides the potential for me to communicate with more people, the reality is that I communicate with fewer.
Yes, I wish I could get my friends & family to develop the habit of looking here daily (or regularly.) But I can't. They use their time, and develop their habits, in ways that suite them. It's not my game, so I need to play by their rules.
So, today, I will e-mail.
But I won't stop posting. This is a good habit. And, incredibly, I see that Russ has actually found my blog somehow! [Welcome, Russ! How are you?] Without the blog, who knows how long it would have been before he and I were in contact again.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
It should be easier than this
I decided to buy expansion memory for my Sansa MP3 player today. You know how it should work? I should plug it in, and then my tools for loading songs should be able to load the expansion. The tools don't even see the expansion card. When I look at the player as a device, using Windows Explorer, it can't see the expansion either.
Maybe, just maybe, I bought the wrong expansion. I doubt it.
A quick look at the PDF of the user manual gives no help -- it shows an expansion card (using Explorer) in one picture -- no words, no help. A quick look in the forums provides no help either.
I'll bet iPods are easier. If they are, then the reason for their popularity becomes clearer.
Maybe, just maybe, I bought the wrong expansion. I doubt it.
A quick look at the PDF of the user manual gives no help -- it shows an expansion card (using Explorer) in one picture -- no words, no help. A quick look in the forums provides no help either.
I'll bet iPods are easier. If they are, then the reason for their popularity becomes clearer.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Latest Micro-Reviews - Edition 5
We watched a couple of movies with Mike in Seattle, and a couple more at home. Of course, several of them are re-viewings. I don't think I've reviewed them here before.
We'll have to see some new movies between now and the end of the year. We have a pretty long list of things we want to see, but we haven't had much time in a couple of weeks. It was good to finally see "The Hours," which I had been wanting to see since Kidman won the Best Actress Oscar.
| 96 | “Original” and “Unique” don’t do it justice. Tender, Sweet, Meaningful and Entertaining. Success without ambition; love without expectation; grace without pretense. Wonderful. | |
| 74 | Fun, light, action – some neat ideas. I didn’t know it was from a comic book. | |
| 90 | I never knew anything about Virginia Woolf. This movie made me want to learn more. The interweaving stories flowed well. Each woman, living a life she did not feel was meant for her, dealing with the despair in similar, yet different, ways. | |
| 81 | Love the atmosphere. So many excellent actors, and such a deep, dark mood. And a fun mystery, too. | |
| 98 | The Ents are not silly! The orcs are mean. The slightly lower rating is for confusion they could have worked a bit harder to clear up. But still near perfection! | |
| 93 | Such atmosphere! Such a message! And “V” is one of the most memorable characters ever. |
We'll have to see some new movies between now and the end of the year. We have a pretty long list of things we want to see, but we haven't had much time in a couple of weeks. It was good to finally see "The Hours," which I had been wanting to see since Kidman won the Best Actress Oscar.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Sliders, Sights, Starbucks and other Emerald Events
I decided to post something on a vacation day, since the vacation deserves special treatment.
We've just finished our trip to Seattle (the "Emerald City") and we had a wonderful time! We did so many things, there's no way to do justice to them all. Our hotel was just off the corner of the Seattle Center, so we were a couple minutes walk from the Space Needle, the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame, the Experience Music Project, the Key Arena, the Seattle Children's Theater, and so much more. Of those, we only did not see anything in the Key Arena, though we passed many people who were in line to attend a metal concert there (I think Ozzie Osbourne.)
Additionally, we took a couple of walks to the Pike Street Market, bought some excellent fruit and baked goods and crafts. Sherry's hat and Leah's wrist gloves are cool and handmade. Also in the "walking" category, we took a tour of the Seattle Underground and we walked several trails in Mt. Rainier National Park. The snow kept us from our planned walk around Paradise, but that was no big deal. We still had a great time.
Mike and Molly were perfect hosts. They shared their apartment with us, let us watch a couple movies and several episodes of "Sliders" (which we had not ever seen before), and generally entertained us in between times of sight-seeing and eating excellent meals.
Yes, I did get to play Magic, too! Mike wanted to break out the decks while Sherry and Leah saw a Harry Potter movie, so I got to try out a couple of recently built decks, as well as a handful of theme decks from recent sets.
I'm exceedingly happy that we got to visit Mike in Seattle before he moves back to Decorah. It was a great trip and we're thankful for the chance, and for the great hosting we got.
I highly recommend a visit to Seattle -- a clean, friendly city with many great things to see, do, and eat!
We've just finished our trip to Seattle (the "Emerald City") and we had a wonderful time! We did so many things, there's no way to do justice to them all. Our hotel was just off the corner of the Seattle Center, so we were a couple minutes walk from the Space Needle, the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame, the Experience Music Project, the Key Arena, the Seattle Children's Theater, and so much more. Of those, we only did not see anything in the Key Arena, though we passed many people who were in line to attend a metal concert there (I think Ozzie Osbourne.)
Additionally, we took a couple of walks to the Pike Street Market, bought some excellent fruit and baked goods and crafts. Sherry's hat and Leah's wrist gloves are cool and handmade. Also in the "walking" category, we took a tour of the Seattle Underground and we walked several trails in Mt. Rainier National Park. The snow kept us from our planned walk around Paradise, but that was no big deal. We still had a great time.
Mike and Molly were perfect hosts. They shared their apartment with us, let us watch a couple movies and several episodes of "Sliders" (which we had not ever seen before), and generally entertained us in between times of sight-seeing and eating excellent meals.
Yes, I did get to play Magic, too! Mike wanted to break out the decks while Sherry and Leah saw a Harry Potter movie, so I got to try out a couple of recently built decks, as well as a handful of theme decks from recent sets.
I'm exceedingly happy that we got to visit Mike in Seattle before he moves back to Decorah. It was a great trip and we're thankful for the chance, and for the great hosting we got.
I highly recommend a visit to Seattle -- a clean, friendly city with many great things to see, do, and eat!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Competitive Fun
Anyone who knows me well knows that I like to play Magic: the Gathering. Several years ago, I was able to play frequently with my friends, but that just doesn't happen any more. Instead, I play the online version. Usually, I play in leagues -- 4-week long sessions with a limited card pool. I enjoy the challenge of building a deck or two from the cards I get, and facing other players online to match my strategy and tactics against theirs, with a decent amount of luck involved.
I tend to be average. In the 4-week period, each player has the chance to play 20 matches (a match is the best two of three games), with the opportunity to play more matches for "tie-breaker" points. I don't have time for much more than the 5 matches per week, typically. So, I usually win about 10 and lose about 10.
When I start each match, I tell my opponent "Good Luck and Have Fun." And I mean it. I like Magic a lot, but the worst part of the game is when unlucky draws make a game one-sided, in either direction. So I really do want both of us to avoid bad luck. And I play the game for fun. There are a few people online who are poor losers and/or poor winners, and people who seem to take the anonymity of the online environment as permission to be nasty or at least rude. But most of the players like to have fun.
This past few weeks I've found myself with a bit more relaxation time to devote to playing, so I've been in three leagues (each starting a different week.) In the league which will end soonest, I just finished my normal matches and have a record of 15 wins and 5 losses. I am pretty sure this is as well as I've ever done. During that stretch, I've played with a couple of grumps, but for the most part my opponents have been nice and gracious.
I have enjoyed myself greatly, and while I don't doubt that some of the enjoyment comes from having won just a few more matches than I normally do, I also can honestly say that the majority of my satisfaction comes from the experience of getting to play this wonderfully designed strategy game with people who are also playing for the fun of it.
This will be my last entry until I return from visiting Mike in Seattle. To anyone who has been dropping by to read my daily scribbles, they'll resume next Tuesday.
I tend to be average. In the 4-week period, each player has the chance to play 20 matches (a match is the best two of three games), with the opportunity to play more matches for "tie-breaker" points. I don't have time for much more than the 5 matches per week, typically. So, I usually win about 10 and lose about 10.
When I start each match, I tell my opponent "Good Luck and Have Fun." And I mean it. I like Magic a lot, but the worst part of the game is when unlucky draws make a game one-sided, in either direction. So I really do want both of us to avoid bad luck. And I play the game for fun. There are a few people online who are poor losers and/or poor winners, and people who seem to take the anonymity of the online environment as permission to be nasty or at least rude. But most of the players like to have fun.
This past few weeks I've found myself with a bit more relaxation time to devote to playing, so I've been in three leagues (each starting a different week.) In the league which will end soonest, I just finished my normal matches and have a record of 15 wins and 5 losses. I am pretty sure this is as well as I've ever done. During that stretch, I've played with a couple of grumps, but for the most part my opponents have been nice and gracious.
I have enjoyed myself greatly, and while I don't doubt that some of the enjoyment comes from having won just a few more matches than I normally do, I also can honestly say that the majority of my satisfaction comes from the experience of getting to play this wonderfully designed strategy game with people who are also playing for the fun of it.
This will be my last entry until I return from visiting Mike in Seattle. To anyone who has been dropping by to read my daily scribbles, they'll resume next Tuesday.
Monday, October 15, 2007
100 and more
This week's column by Mark Rosewater on the Magic: the Gathering website marks his 300th column by reviewing the most recent hundred. That got me to wondering "How many blog entries have I done?"
Well, blogger makes that question easy to answer. According to the count, I have actually gone over 100 since I moved my blog here.
Don't worry, I won't be reviewing them! I suppose I should go back and see if I've written anything worthy of putting in Echoes since I last posted there, but since I have so few readers, and since most of my entries are short, it's quite unnecessary to review them, I think.
One thing I wonder: I put a "label" (or more than one) on almost every entry. The Angelfire blog had a way to browse entries by labels. Does blogger allow that? I can't see a way. It would be nice, for example, if my kids could easily find the entries I've labeled "father" -- if and when they ever read my blog.
That reminds me of something. Several years back, Sherry gave me a "journal" of sorts. It was designed to be written by a father to pass thoughts down to his children. It had lots of little topics with space next to the topic to be filled in by the father. It had a Christian theme, however, and some of the first items were things I couldn't really fill in - stuff about my faith life as a child and such. Anyway, I never wrote in it, despite liking the general concept.
Anyway, I'm finding my blog serves a similar purpose. I definitely put down in the blog thoughts that I would like to pass on to my kids. Perhaps someday I will collect those thoughts and send them to the intended audience.
Unless, of course, they all start reading my blog.
Nah. I'll have to collect them.
Anyway, here's to my 104th entry, and a hope for many more.
Well, blogger makes that question easy to answer. According to the count, I have actually gone over 100 since I moved my blog here.
Don't worry, I won't be reviewing them! I suppose I should go back and see if I've written anything worthy of putting in Echoes since I last posted there, but since I have so few readers, and since most of my entries are short, it's quite unnecessary to review them, I think.
One thing I wonder: I put a "label" (or more than one) on almost every entry. The Angelfire blog had a way to browse entries by labels. Does blogger allow that? I can't see a way. It would be nice, for example, if my kids could easily find the entries I've labeled "father" -- if and when they ever read my blog.
That reminds me of something. Several years back, Sherry gave me a "journal" of sorts. It was designed to be written by a father to pass thoughts down to his children. It had lots of little topics with space next to the topic to be filled in by the father. It had a Christian theme, however, and some of the first items were things I couldn't really fill in - stuff about my faith life as a child and such. Anyway, I never wrote in it, despite liking the general concept.
Anyway, I'm finding my blog serves a similar purpose. I definitely put down in the blog thoughts that I would like to pass on to my kids. Perhaps someday I will collect those thoughts and send them to the intended audience.
Unless, of course, they all start reading my blog.
Nah. I'll have to collect them.
Anyway, here's to my 104th entry, and a hope for many more.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Goodbye, Dancer -- and Simba
Sometime last night, Dancer passed away. Dancer is the calico. Her brother, Simba, preceded her in death last year. Both lived quietly in our home for many years, providing entertainment, purrs, warmth and love to the family, especially to the kids. Dancer was so named because she was so skittish as a kitten that she often seemed to be dancing. She was stand-offish for much of her life, but became more approachable once she was the only cat in the house. Simba was a big, big, heavy, full cat, who never ran from a hug or a pet or a brush. They fit each other well, and they were a good addition to our home.
Kids, you might not believe this, but I liked them a lot more than you thought I did. But I know, you loved them even more. I'm sorry for your loss, and I hope you have pets someday that bring you the joy you had with these two cats.
Goodbye Dancer & Simba.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
In the Catacombs
For many minutes, they walked cautiously in complete darkness. Carefully, they tested the stone floor ahead of them to prevent stumbling, to find walls, to prove to themselves that they were still in the catacombs, not some eternally dark level of damnation. Still, they kept walking. Still, the darkness remained complete.
The dank stonework corridors were a maze. They had taken so many turns, there was no chance they would be able to retrace their steps, even if they found illumination.
An hour, maybe two, maybe more passed. They had progressed thirty or forty paces without encountering another wall, when they noticed that the space around them echoed a bit more, and the air felt increasingly damp. The foul odor, present since their arrival, was more pungent with each step; vomit mixed with rotting vegetation and sulfur. Their stomachs turned. They considered turning around, trying to retreat from the stench.
And then, it happened.
Bright green fire flashed from somewhere ahead of them. Their eyes, so long deprived of light, winced in pain at the sudden shine. Their minds were struck in sudden horror as the fire showed them surrounded by a horde of writhing creatures, each being lit by the eerie flames and advancing towards the new victims with intent as certain as the darkness that would enclose them one final time.
The dank stonework corridors were a maze. They had taken so many turns, there was no chance they would be able to retrace their steps, even if they found illumination.
An hour, maybe two, maybe more passed. They had progressed thirty or forty paces without encountering another wall, when they noticed that the space around them echoed a bit more, and the air felt increasingly damp. The foul odor, present since their arrival, was more pungent with each step; vomit mixed with rotting vegetation and sulfur. Their stomachs turned. They considered turning around, trying to retreat from the stench.
And then, it happened.
Bright green fire flashed from somewhere ahead of them. Their eyes, so long deprived of light, winced in pain at the sudden shine. Their minds were struck in sudden horror as the fire showed them surrounded by a horde of writhing creatures, each being lit by the eerie flames and advancing towards the new victims with intent as certain as the darkness that would enclose them one final time.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Seattle in a week
A week from today I will be getting on a plane to go visit Mike in Seattle. Only once before have I seen that fair city (does it have a nickname, I wonder? "Windy City" = Chicago, that sort of thing.)
This time I will see it with Sherry and Leah. I'm excited already. Almost a week of vacation; a chance to see Mike; sight-seeing and restaurants with Sherry & Leah & Mike. It all sounds so good!
The timing works out such that I will only see Sarah for a day or so of her Fall Break, so that's too bad. But in the end, it's a Good Thing to do.
Space Needle. Sci-Fi museum. Mt. Ranier. A play? What's not to like?
Counting down the days....
This time I will see it with Sherry and Leah. I'm excited already. Almost a week of vacation; a chance to see Mike; sight-seeing and restaurants with Sherry & Leah & Mike. It all sounds so good!
The timing works out such that I will only see Sarah for a day or so of her Fall Break, so that's too bad. But in the end, it's a Good Thing to do.
Space Needle. Sci-Fi museum. Mt. Ranier. A play? What's not to like?
Counting down the days....
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Concert
Leah's choir had their first concert of the year last night. There were five groups which sang. Leah was in two of them. Every group did a good job, and they each had at least one song which allowed the singers to demonstrate that they were really having a good time.
It's fun and rewarding to see Leah's growth as a singer, and as a performer in general. Her voice mixed really well with her small group, and was pure and bright. She really seems comfortable on stage, allowing her emotion to show forth and add energy to the piece. I'm glad I'll have so many opportunities to see her perform again this fall -- in plays, in concerts and in pop choir.
Brava!
It's fun and rewarding to see Leah's growth as a singer, and as a performer in general. Her voice mixed really well with her small group, and was pure and bright. She really seems comfortable on stage, allowing her emotion to show forth and add energy to the piece. I'm glad I'll have so many opportunities to see her perform again this fall -- in plays, in concerts and in pop choir.
Brava!
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