ADA – Ada Writers Fall Book Festival will be Tuesday, Sept. 10, 4:30-6:30 p.m. hosted by Karen’s Art and Farming, 108 East Main. The festival will feature “Creations 2013: 40 Ways to Look at Love,” the newest anthology by Ada Writers, and books by local authors and by award winning children’s book author Laura Eckroat.
“We will be offering books that are mysteries, romances, biographies, inspirational, humor, and more,” said Stephen B. Bagley, Ada Writers president. “And of course, the new anthology features short stories, poems, memoirs, and more by members of Ada Writers, including Kelley Benson, Eric Collier, Lindiwe Hall, Mel Hutt, Ken Lewis, Rick Litchfield, Don Perry, Martha Rhynes, Joanne Verbridge, Tim Wilson, Gail Wood, and Tom Yarbrough.”
A small quantity of signed children’s books by Laura Wintczak Eckroat will be available at the Festival. Eckroat's book “Went Out To Get a Donut - Came Home With a Muffin” was featured in Fort Worth, Texas Magazine and won the Texas Association of Authors First Place Award for Best 7 and Under Children's Book. Her latest book, “What’s In The Corner? ... A Muffin ‘Tail,’” was released this summer. Learn more about Eckroat and her books at LauraEckroat.blogspot.com.
“We will have readings, signed books, refreshments, and good conversations about books,” said Bagley. “We invite everyone to attend.” For more information about Ada Writers, visit AdaWriters.blogspot.com.
“Creations 2013: 40 Ways to Look at Love” is dedicated to the late Arlene “Aren” Rose Howell, who was a cherished longtime member and officer of Ada Writers.
The anthology features works from the following Ada and area authors:
Stephen B. Bagley wrote “Murder by Dewey Decimal,” “Murder by the Acre,” and the forthcoming “Murder by the Mile,” all in the Measurements of Murder™ series. His other books include “Tales from Bethlehem,” “Floozy and Other Stories,” and “EndlesS.” He also wrote the full-length plays “Murder at the Witch’s Cottage” and “Two Writers in the Hands of an Angry God” and co-wrote “Turnabout.” He coauthored two one-act plays published by Dramatic Publishing Company. His poetry has appeared in “Creations 2012,” ByLine Magazine, Prairie Songs, Free Star, and other journals, and his articles in Nautilus, OKMagazine, Pontotoc County Chronicles, and other publications. Visit his website at StephenBBagley.blogspot.com.
Kelley Benson wrote “On Target: Devotions for Modern Life.” He is a Christian and small town minister who has a passion for using everyday opportunities to help people recognize how God works in their lives. He is the husband of his beautiful wife, Jade. They are being intentional about raising their three young children to see how God should be part of everything people do. He’s been involved in the ministry since 1997. A close Christian mentor inspired Kelley to practice “vocational preaching,” simply put: to work and preach. This allows him the opportunity to be involved in the lives of other people in a personal way through secular work while demonstrating leadership in a local church. Visit his website at KelleyBenson.blogspot.com.
Eric Collier is a father of two and grandfather of six. He started writing poetry for a poetry class hosted by Continuing Education at East Central University. He lives in Ada and works as physical therapist for a local hospital. He enjoys camping, hiking, bird watching, and growing vegetables and flowers.
Lindiwe Hall is a published author of books and eBooks. She enjoys all kinds of writing. She is a graduate of the College of New Rochelle, New York. She has written autobiographical fiction, writes children’s books, and is in the process of proofing and writing an album for her mission called Rose of Sharon. Also, she is very proud of her late father, who was Ambassador to the United Nations from Swaziland for 18 years.
Mel Hutt and his wife have been married for more than sixty years and have three children, eight grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. When his father died in 1945, he entered the Navy and served more than three years in the Pacific, including Operation Crossroads of the atomic bomb experiments at Bikini. He was then assigned to a destroyer and traveled to places like Australia, China, and Japan, with Hawaii as the stop to and from those places. He shares his memories in memoirs.
Ken Lewis has written several articles and short stories of different genres. His interests lie mostly in the paranormal and science fiction genres, but he enjoys exploring other avenues of the art. He’s a graduate of the Longridge Writer’s Group. He’s a firm believer in “Life is learning.” He currently serves as vice-president and treasurer of Ada Writers.
Rick Litchfield’s poetry appears in “A Surrender to the Moon,” “The International Who’s Who in Poetry,” “Timeless Voices,” “The Best Poems and Poets of 2007” and “Creations 2012.” He is working on “Shards of Wit and Wisdom: Stories and Stained Glass.”
Don Perry grew up outside of Crockett, Texas, and later moved to Fort Worth. After many years in the aviation field, he retired and moved to a small farm outside of Ada, Oklahoma. Don married Barbara Burleson in 1965, has two children, Melissa and James, and three grandsons. Since his retirement, he writes short stories of life and times during his youth, geared toward the young adult and teen-aged audiences. Many of his short stories show the humorous and whimsical side of the 1950s life and are often autobiographical in nature. He is currently writing a novel in the fantasy genre.
Martha Rhynes, a retired teacher, began her writing career by re-searching the lives of American authors and writing biographies and analyses of their work for inclusion in literary encyclopedias. Her book-length biographies include, “I, Too, Sing America, The Story of Langston Hughes,” “Gwendolyn Brooks, Poet from Chicago,” “Ralph Ellison: Author of Invisible Man,” “Jack London: Writer of Adventure,” and “Ray Bradbury: Teller of Tales.” Her works of fiction include numerous short stories and three novels: “Secret of the Pack Rat’s Nest,” “The War Bride,” and “Man on First.” Her non-fiction includes an eBook for young adults: “How to Write Scary Stories.” Visit her website at MarthaERhynes.blogspot.com.
Joanne Verbridge was born in Oakland, California, spending her life experiences in Northern California. Family brought her to Oklahoma where she enjoys taking time to write about those experiences. She is trying to inspire her young nieces to take an interest in story telling and writing. She currently serves as the secretary and historian for Ada Writers.
Tim Wilson is a steadfast believer in truth, justice, and the American way of life, and writes to make a difference by helping others with his hard-earned knowledge and life experiences so others may not suffer the same tragic consequences. He is currently writing a nonfiction book, “Yet to be Disclosed,” which is based on facts that explain “the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth about the issues of modern society.”
Gail Wood has written all her life. “It is as natural to me as breathing. I love the written word, all the nuances, the connotations, the music. I am retired from the perverted world of grants, reports, and strategic plans—the bureaucratic graveyard for words. Besides writing, I have a passion for walking. I love the outdoors and all things natural. The best part of my life is now.” Her book, “Red Bird Woman,” will be released later this year by Many Rivers Harbor.
Tom Yarbrough is the author of four books, three nonfiction and one fiction. He is currently editing two works accepted by a publisher. After a long career in counseling and education, he now spends his time with full-time writing, family concerns, and hobbies like Rendezvous (an 1840 living history camp) and making bookmarks called Shepherd Staffs.
Sunday, September 08, 2013
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Ada Public Library hosts book signing
ADA – Ada Public Library will host a book signing for “Creations 2013: 40 Ways to Look at Love,” the newest anthology from Ada Writers, 4-6 p.m., Thursday, August 22. The book will be available for purchase at the book signing for $12The back cover explains the theme of the book: “For some, passion and joy. For others, torment and regret. Ada Writers looks at love in its many forms with articles, essays, memoirs, poems, short stories, and excerpts from books and novels-in-progress in this new anthology.”
The anthology is dedicated to the late Arlene “Aren” Rose Howell, who was a cherished longtime member and officer of Ada Writers.
This year’s anthology features works from the following Ada and area authors:
Stephen B. Bagley wrote “Murder by Dewey Decimal,” “Murder by the Acre,” and the forthcoming “Murder by the Mile,” all in the Measurements of Murder™ series. His other books include “Tales from Bethlehem,” “Floozy and Other Stories,” and “EndlesS.” He also wrote the full-length plays “Murder at the Witch’s Cottage” and “Two Writers in the Hands of an Angry God” and co-wrote “Turnabout.” He coauthored two one-act plays published by Dramatic Publishing Company. His poetry has appeared in “Creations 2012,” ByLine Magazine, Prairie Songs, Free Star, and other journals, and his articles in Nautilus, OKMagazine, Pontotoc County Chronicles, and other publications. He currently serves as president of Ada Writers. Visit his website at StephenBBagley.blogspot.com.
Kelley Benson wrote “On Target: Devotions for Modern Life.” He is a Christian and small town minister who has a passion for using everyday opportunities to help people recognize how God works in their lives. He is the husband of his beautiful wife, Jade. They are being intentional about raising their three young children to see how God should be part of everything people do. He’s been involved in the ministry since 1997. A close Christian mentor inspired Kelley to practice “vocational preaching,” simply put: to work and preach. This allows him the opportunity to be involved in the lives of other people in a personal way through secular work while demonstrating leadership in a local church. Visit his website at KelleyBenson.blogspot.com.
Eric Collier is a father of two and grandfather of six. He started writing poetry for a poetry class hosted by Continuing Education at East Central University. He lives in Ada and works as physical therapist for a local hospital. He enjoys camping, hiking, bird watching, and growing vegetables and flowers.
Lindiwe Hall is a published author of books and eBooks. She enjoys all kinds of writing. She is a graduate of the College of New Rochelle, New York. She has written autobiographical fiction, writes children’s books, and is in the process of proofing and writing an album for her mission called Rose of Sharon. Also, she is very proud of her late father, who was Ambassador to the United Nations from Swaziland for 18 years.
Mel Hutt and his wife have been married for more than sixty years and have three children, eight grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. When his father died in 1945, he entered the Navy and served more than three years in the Pacific, including Operation Crossroads of the atomic bomb experiments at Bikini. He was then assigned to a destroyer and traveled to places like Australia, China, and Japan, with Hawaii as the stop to and from those places. He shares his memories in memoirs.
Ken Lewis has written several articles and short stories of different genres. His interests lie mostly in the paranormal and science fiction genres, but he enjoys exploring other avenues of the art. He’s a graduate of the Longridge Writer’s Group. He’s a firm believer in “Life is learning.” He currently serves as vice-president and treasurer of Ada Writers.
Rick Litchfield’s poetry appears in “A Surrender to the Moon,” “The International Who’s Who in Poetry,” “Timeless Voices,” “The Best Poems and Poets of 2007” and “Creations 2012.” He is working on “Shards of Wit and Wisdom: Stories and Stained Glass.”
Don Perry grew up outside of Crockett, Texas, and later moved to Fort Worth. After many years in the aviation field, he retired and moved to a small farm outside of Ada, Oklahoma. Don married Barbara Burleson in 1965, has two children, Melissa and James, and three grandsons. Since his retirement, he writes short stories of life and times during his youth, geared toward the young adult and teen-aged audiences. Many of his short stories show the humorous and whimsical side of the 1950s life and are often autobiographical in nature. He is currently writing a novel in the fantasy genre.
Martha Rhynes, a retired teacher, began her writing career by re-searching the lives of American authors and writing biographies and analyses of their work for inclusion in literary encyclopedias. Her book-length biographies include, “I, Too, Sing America, The Story of Langston Hughes,” “Gwendolyn Brooks, Poet from Chicago,” “Ralph Ellison: Author of Invisible Man,” “Jack London: Writer of Adventure,” and “Ray Bradbury: Teller of Tales.” Her works of fiction include numerous short stories and three novels: “Secret of the Pack Rat’s Nest,” “The War Bride,” and “Man on First.” Her non-fiction includes an eBook for young adults: “How to Write Scary Stories.” Visit her website at MarthaERhynes.blogspot.com.
Joanne Verbridge was born in Oakland, California, spending her life experiences in Northern California. Family brought her to Oklahoma where she enjoys taking time to write about those experiences. She is trying to inspire her young nieces to take an interest in story telling and writing. She currently serves as the secretary and historian for Ada Writers.
Tim Wilson is a steadfast believer in truth, justice, and the American way of life, and writes to make a difference by helping others with his hard-earned knowledge and life experiences so others may not suffer the same tragic consequences. He is currently writing a non-fiction book, “Yet to be Disclosed,” which is based on facts that explain “the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth about the issues of modern society.”
Gail Wood has written all her life. “It is as natural to me as breathing. I love the written word, all the nuances, the connotations, the music. I am retired from the perverted world of grants, reports, and strategic plans—the bureaucratic graveyard for words. Besides writing, I have a passion for walking. I love the outdoors and all things natural. The best part of my life is now.” Her forthcoming book, “Red Bird Woman,” will be released later this year by Many Rivers Harbor.
Tom Yarbrough is the author of four books, three non-fiction and one fiction. He is currently editing two works accepted by a publisher. After a long career in counseling and education, he now spends his time with full time writing, family concerns, and hobbies like Rendezvous (an 1840 living history camp) and making bookmarks called Shepherd Staffs.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Review of "Floozy and Other Stories"
Being of a fan of Stephen Bagley’s mysteries and his thoughtful, funny, and occasionally inspiring website, I eagerly waited for Floozy and Other Stories, his collection of humor columns from various media.
I wasn’t disappointed. From the introduction on, Bagley shows his dazzling ability with wordplay and humorous images. I’ve read the book twice now and discovered a new sly joke each time. Bagley winks at us while inviting us into the joke. The clever codes hidden on the back cover and in at least one chapter were delightful surprises, particularly since they’re not advertised but hidden like Easter eggs. Maddeningly, he refuses to discuss the codes. That’s okay. I like looking!
Several stories in the book stood out. ‘Sex and the Single Novelist’ made me actually spit coffee! I laughed so hard at ‘American History 101’ and ‘Mansquito’ that I nearly busted something. And his twisted looks at the Twilight movies and at the Pilgrims and the First Thanksgiving deserve to be classics. I kept calling my sister to read parts of the book to her until she finally drove over and demanded to borrow my copy. (I bought another one so we could both have a copy of our own.)
I also really enjoyed ‘Tanning My Hide,’ ‘A Hard Day Knighting,’ and many, many others. I don’t think you can find a page that doesn’t have a laugh on it. I expect each reader will have his or his favorites.
A note on the look of the book itself: it’s sharp and attractive. The illustrations (from Dover Publications, Inc.) are funny in their own right and fit the stories as if they were drawn for the book. It’s a good looking volume that will brighten any bookshelf.
All in all, Floozy and Other Stories is a wild and funny ride, one that I’m glad he invited me along.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Review of "Murder by the Acre"
I always approach sequels with a certain amount of trepidation, particularly if I enjoyed the previous work. Rarely does the author improve upon his original vision, and much of the joy of discovery is gone. I’m delighted to say Stephen B. Bagley’s new mystery novel, Murder by the Acre, is a happy exception. It’s even better than Murder by Dewey Decimal, the first novel in Bagley’s Measurements of Murder™ series.
In Murder by the Acre, most of the original characters from the first book return. Bernard, Lisa, and the chief are back as well as the chief’s strong-minded wife Maggie, the efficient Lt. Sims, the annoying Hyatt family, the ever politically minded Ryton Mayor Otis Brunson, and many others. If you’re a cat lover as I am, you’ll be glad to hear that Obsidian, Lisa’s black cat, is also back and has a larger role this time around, although not as large as Obsidian obviously deserves.
Ryton, Oklahoma, expands in this book. We meet many of its citizens, most of whom have something to hide. Ryton is a small town of gossip, romance, adultery, secrets, and intrigue. It’s the Peyton Place of Oklahoma. It’s not a surprise some of these secrets lead to murder; what is surprising is more of them don’t! There are several characters in this book who would drive a sane person to homicide if you had to spend a lot of time with them and knew what is finally revealed in this book.
Bagley juggles many minor plots in this book and never drops a one. I was impressed by his ability to conclude all of them in satisfactory fashion. In fact, he brings two minor plots to a surprising and clever conclusion on nearly the last page of the book. I didn’t even realize the two plots were connected until the revelation.
As for the murders, they are baffling and terrible. I actually figured out who was responsible halfway through this book and then changed my mind when I misinterpreted a clue later on. Bagley plays fair with the clues, but figuring out which clue points to which person is a real challenge. He is also clever in the way he hides clues in plain sight. When every clue comes together at the end, they make perfect sense. I don’t want to spoil anything for you, but I will give you a hint — “how” is just as important as “why” in this book and will eventually lead you to “who,” although it’s a hard path to follow.
I finished Murder by the Acre in one sitting and wished the book had been longer. (It is longer than Murder by Dewey Decimal.) Not because Bagley didn’t finish the story, but because I was enjoying visiting Ryton so much I hated to leave.
As always I enjoyed the relationship between the chief and Maggie. Their loving marriage of many years rings true. Bernard and Lisa’s relationship faces several hurdles this time around, but those are the perils of any love affair. Lisa’s past and her insecurity may complicate their future together, but I hope they will work things through. I want to see how things turn out between these two young people and look forward to reading more about them.
Bagley is especially talented in his portrayal of the minor characters. With a few deft sentences, he brings the smallest of characters to life. I know what Lisa’s brash cousin Lorene looks like and how she acts even though we never “see” Lorene in the book.
And I mustn’t forget the one-liners. Thankfully, Bagley can’t resist a good zinger, and several of them are laugh-out loud funny.
If you pick up Murder by the Acre, you won’t be disappointed. It’s funny, surprising, and exciting. I can’t wait for the next one.
In Murder by the Acre, most of the original characters from the first book return. Bernard, Lisa, and the chief are back as well as the chief’s strong-minded wife Maggie, the efficient Lt. Sims, the annoying Hyatt family, the ever politically minded Ryton Mayor Otis Brunson, and many others. If you’re a cat lover as I am, you’ll be glad to hear that Obsidian, Lisa’s black cat, is also back and has a larger role this time around, although not as large as Obsidian obviously deserves.
Ryton, Oklahoma, expands in this book. We meet many of its citizens, most of whom have something to hide. Ryton is a small town of gossip, romance, adultery, secrets, and intrigue. It’s the Peyton Place of Oklahoma. It’s not a surprise some of these secrets lead to murder; what is surprising is more of them don’t! There are several characters in this book who would drive a sane person to homicide if you had to spend a lot of time with them and knew what is finally revealed in this book.
Bagley juggles many minor plots in this book and never drops a one. I was impressed by his ability to conclude all of them in satisfactory fashion. In fact, he brings two minor plots to a surprising and clever conclusion on nearly the last page of the book. I didn’t even realize the two plots were connected until the revelation.
As for the murders, they are baffling and terrible. I actually figured out who was responsible halfway through this book and then changed my mind when I misinterpreted a clue later on. Bagley plays fair with the clues, but figuring out which clue points to which person is a real challenge. He is also clever in the way he hides clues in plain sight. When every clue comes together at the end, they make perfect sense. I don’t want to spoil anything for you, but I will give you a hint — “how” is just as important as “why” in this book and will eventually lead you to “who,” although it’s a hard path to follow.
I finished Murder by the Acre in one sitting and wished the book had been longer. (It is longer than Murder by Dewey Decimal.) Not because Bagley didn’t finish the story, but because I was enjoying visiting Ryton so much I hated to leave.
As always I enjoyed the relationship between the chief and Maggie. Their loving marriage of many years rings true. Bernard and Lisa’s relationship faces several hurdles this time around, but those are the perils of any love affair. Lisa’s past and her insecurity may complicate their future together, but I hope they will work things through. I want to see how things turn out between these two young people and look forward to reading more about them.
Bagley is especially talented in his portrayal of the minor characters. With a few deft sentences, he brings the smallest of characters to life. I know what Lisa’s brash cousin Lorene looks like and how she acts even though we never “see” Lorene in the book.
And I mustn’t forget the one-liners. Thankfully, Bagley can’t resist a good zinger, and several of them are laugh-out loud funny.
If you pick up Murder by the Acre, you won’t be disappointed. It’s funny, surprising, and exciting. I can’t wait for the next one.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
EndlesS on sale now!
Yes, that's right. EndlesS is on sale now! Everything came together over the weekend, and this afternoon the link to purchase EndlesS went live.I'm excited about this first collection of poetry, so much so that I've planned two others, Undying, which will be poems of fantasy and science fiction; and Quicksilver, which will be spiritual poems. One of those will be out in 2009.
But it's May 2008 right now, and you can be one of the first to own Endless. I am offering signature labels that I will be signing to everyone who purchases a copy online. Just email me your name and address after you've received your copy, and I'll send a signature label right out.
And the first five people who purchase EndlesS will receive a Murder by the Acre kitchen magnet! As soon as you've purchased the book and received your "thank you note" from Lulu, email me with your name and address. I'll send you a MBTA kitchen magnet, but remember, it's only the first five people so don't delay. (My email address is issacskye at gmail dot com.)
I'm excited that EndlesS is available now. I hope you enjoy it. Here's the link to it again.
Monday, May 26, 2008
EndlesS
By Gloria Williams
I received an advance copy of EndlesS, a collection of poems by Stephen B. Bagley. While I’m a fan of Stephen’s writings – particularly his humor and his mysteries – I’m not a fan of poetry. Still, I had enjoyed the poems on his blog so when he asked if I wanted to read an advance copy and review it, I decided to take the chance.
What an unexpected little book of treasures! The poems cover emotions from joy to sorrow to passion to bitterness to grief to rebirth. I particularly liked “Creationsong” and “Quicksilver,” two decidedly religious poems that surprised me with their joy and power, respectively. “Last Poem For Jenny” has to be one of the most touching poems I’ve ever read, and “Endless,” the title poem, is simply stunning, particularly its last line. “Passion” is certainly passionate as the writer reveals a love in his life and has to be one of the sexiest poems ever.
Not that the poems shy away from the dark events of life. “Non-Communion” is a strong, unflinching look at divorce, and “Hush” gives us the multiple stories of people that society would like to ignore. I wouldn’t have liked to have been the subject of “Dismissal” or the recipient of “You & Me.”
EndlesS also takes a look at the end of the world (“No One Expected It to Happen”), the lure of a mermaid (“Undertow”), paganism (appropriately titled “Pagan”), the marriage problems of a Native American couple (“Wounded Needs”), and many other subjects.
The poems are clear and understandable even on first reading, but as I re-read the poems to write this review, I was impressed and intrigued by the hidden meanings that occurred to me. All in all, EndlesS is full of riches that even a person not fond of poetry will enjoy and a poetry lover will be thrilled by it. I highly recommend it.
I received an advance copy of EndlesS, a collection of poems by Stephen B. Bagley. While I’m a fan of Stephen’s writings – particularly his humor and his mysteries – I’m not a fan of poetry. Still, I had enjoyed the poems on his blog so when he asked if I wanted to read an advance copy and review it, I decided to take the chance.
What an unexpected little book of treasures! The poems cover emotions from joy to sorrow to passion to bitterness to grief to rebirth. I particularly liked “Creationsong” and “Quicksilver,” two decidedly religious poems that surprised me with their joy and power, respectively. “Last Poem For Jenny” has to be one of the most touching poems I’ve ever read, and “Endless,” the title poem, is simply stunning, particularly its last line. “Passion” is certainly passionate as the writer reveals a love in his life and has to be one of the sexiest poems ever.
Not that the poems shy away from the dark events of life. “Non-Communion” is a strong, unflinching look at divorce, and “Hush” gives us the multiple stories of people that society would like to ignore. I wouldn’t have liked to have been the subject of “Dismissal” or the recipient of “You & Me.”
EndlesS also takes a look at the end of the world (“No One Expected It to Happen”), the lure of a mermaid (“Undertow”), paganism (appropriately titled “Pagan”), the marriage problems of a Native American couple (“Wounded Needs”), and many other subjects.
The poems are clear and understandable even on first reading, but as I re-read the poems to write this review, I was impressed and intrigued by the hidden meanings that occurred to me. All in all, EndlesS is full of riches that even a person not fond of poetry will enjoy and a poetry lover will be thrilled by it. I highly recommend it.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Launch!
Murder by Dewey Decimal
A Measurements of Murder Mystery™ Novel
By Stephen B. Bagley
When Assistant Librarian Bernard M. Worthington finds the body of the dreaded Agatha Ryton-Storer, he has no way of knowing her death will begin a series of murders that will stun his small town & reveal secrets hidden for thirty years. He, roving reporter Lisa Trent & Police Chief Chuck Donaldson must outwit a ruthless, determined murderer. What was stolen from the library safe? What happened to the missing janitor? Why is Lisa a target? Who stole the Ryton family jewels? Why did old Eliah Ryton will his hideous mansion to the city? What secrets does it hold & who is killing to hide them?
Appealing characters, sly wit, clever plot & chilling suspense mark this first novel in the Measurements of Murder Mystery™ series.
Order Murder by Dewey Decimal in paperback HERE!
Order Murder by Dewey Decimal in hardcover HERE!
Order Murder by Dewey Decimal merchandise HERE!
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Rant (Ver 1.032106)
...
LOADING ANGER MODULE...
RIGHTEOUS FURY EXECUTING...
BEGIN RANT...
It works like this: If you write a book, you own it. If you write a song, you own it. If you write a short story, you own it. What is so hard about that? What is so hard about understanding that you shouldn't steal from other people's works? Are you stupid or what?
Forgive me if I seem abrupt, but I've had it up to here with hacks stealing other people's work and listening to them justify it. They toss around "fair use" even though they don't have the slightest understanding of what it means. They say that it's okay to use other people's words because "it's for charity." They say that it's okay to photocopy plays, books, articles in large quantities because "we're giving them away free." They say that they have a friend who has a cousin who has a brother who is dating a lawyer and she said it was okay.
And if you call them on their twisted thinking, they look at you with wounded eyes and quietly say they were just trying to be "creative."
Let me make it real simple for you. If you steal someone's work, it's theft. Forget about "copyright infringement." Those two words have been tossed around so much that they've practically lost meaning. Let's call it what it is: It's theft. It doesn't matter if you bought the book, the CD, the video, the script, you still have no right to use it to create new works, to adapt it into other forms, to film it, to tape it, to sample it. WHAT IS SO HARD ABOUT THIS?
This will be even simpler. If you steal someone's work, you have no morals. You can babble on about fair use and claim your theft hurts no one and even misquote the copyright laws, but you're nothing more than a common crook. That's all you are.
If you think you might be in violation of copyright, please go to the site for the United States Copyright Office. They have plenty of explanations of what is and isn't copyright theft.
END RANT
EXIT PROGRAM
...
LOADING ANGER MODULE...
RIGHTEOUS FURY EXECUTING...
BEGIN RANT...
It works like this: If you write a book, you own it. If you write a song, you own it. If you write a short story, you own it. What is so hard about that? What is so hard about understanding that you shouldn't steal from other people's works? Are you stupid or what?
Forgive me if I seem abrupt, but I've had it up to here with hacks stealing other people's work and listening to them justify it. They toss around "fair use" even though they don't have the slightest understanding of what it means. They say that it's okay to use other people's words because "it's for charity." They say that it's okay to photocopy plays, books, articles in large quantities because "we're giving them away free." They say that they have a friend who has a cousin who has a brother who is dating a lawyer and she said it was okay.
And if you call them on their twisted thinking, they look at you with wounded eyes and quietly say they were just trying to be "creative."
Let me make it real simple for you. If you steal someone's work, it's theft. Forget about "copyright infringement." Those two words have been tossed around so much that they've practically lost meaning. Let's call it what it is: It's theft. It doesn't matter if you bought the book, the CD, the video, the script, you still have no right to use it to create new works, to adapt it into other forms, to film it, to tape it, to sample it. WHAT IS SO HARD ABOUT THIS?
This will be even simpler. If you steal someone's work, you have no morals. You can babble on about fair use and claim your theft hurts no one and even misquote the copyright laws, but you're nothing more than a common crook. That's all you are.
If you think you might be in violation of copyright, please go to the site for the United States Copyright Office. They have plenty of explanations of what is and isn't copyright theft.
END RANT
EXIT PROGRAM
...
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Seven things
Tech memed me so here it is!
A. Seven things to do before I die:
1. Write the story of my life.
2. Go back to college.
3. Pay off my home.
4. Give more to my church.
5. Spend more time with my nieces.
6. Spend more time with my family.
7. Spend more time in prayer.
B. Seven things I cannot do
1. Play any sports!
2. Enjoy rap or hip-hop music.
3. Listen to any talk radio.
4. Sew a straight line.
5. Use a microwave properly.
6. Wear white.
7. Change the oil on my car.
C. Seven things that attract me to anyone
1. Stability and intelligence.
2. Church-goer.
3. Kindness.
4. Non-drinker.
5. Non-smoker.
6. Sense of humor.
7. Looks fine! :)
D. Seven things I say more often
1. Good morning. How may I help you?
2. Bless you.
3. Have a good day.
4. Whatever you say.
5. S..t! (I'm ashamed to admit it!)
6. Whew.
7. I hear that.
E. Seven books I love
1. The Bible.
2. Any Grace Livingston Hill books.
3. Books about living a Christian life.
4. Black history books.
5. History in general.
6. Historical romances but not the ones with naughty parts.
7. Current events.
F. Seven movies I like
1. The original Star Wars movies.
2. Anything with Denzel Washington in it. But not his violent roles.
3. The Indiana Jones movies.
4. Romancing the Stone. The most romantic film ever.
5. Steel Magnolias.
6. The Color Purple.
7. The Way We Were.
G. I don't know seven people on the Net who haven't already been taggged. So anyone who wants to do it, should do it! :)
A. Seven things to do before I die:
1. Write the story of my life.
2. Go back to college.
3. Pay off my home.
4. Give more to my church.
5. Spend more time with my nieces.
6. Spend more time with my family.
7. Spend more time in prayer.
B. Seven things I cannot do
1. Play any sports!
2. Enjoy rap or hip-hop music.
3. Listen to any talk radio.
4. Sew a straight line.
5. Use a microwave properly.
6. Wear white.
7. Change the oil on my car.
C. Seven things that attract me to anyone
1. Stability and intelligence.
2. Church-goer.
3. Kindness.
4. Non-drinker.
5. Non-smoker.
6. Sense of humor.
7. Looks fine! :)
D. Seven things I say more often
1. Good morning. How may I help you?
2. Bless you.
3. Have a good day.
4. Whatever you say.
5. S..t! (I'm ashamed to admit it!)
6. Whew.
7. I hear that.
E. Seven books I love
1. The Bible.
2. Any Grace Livingston Hill books.
3. Books about living a Christian life.
4. Black history books.
5. History in general.
6. Historical romances but not the ones with naughty parts.
7. Current events.
F. Seven movies I like
1. The original Star Wars movies.
2. Anything with Denzel Washington in it. But not his violent roles.
3. The Indiana Jones movies.
4. Romancing the Stone. The most romantic film ever.
5. Steel Magnolias.
6. The Color Purple.
7. The Way We Were.
G. I don't know seven people on the Net who haven't already been taggged. So anyone who wants to do it, should do it! :)
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Team Mascots
Do team mascots that use Native American names and symbols disparage Native Americans? As a Native American (Cherokee), this is something that I've wrestled with frequently in my own heart and in discussions with other tribal members. It's a muddled thing.
I remember as a child watching old Westerns and rooting always for the cowboys. It would be a long time before Native Americans would be shown as something noble in movies and on TV. And now that the world is so PC, Native Americans are shown as noble but always doomed. How about a few Native Americans that aren't doomed nor buried by the tragic past, but making their way through the world bravely and proudly? This is off the point, though.
Some of the team mascots are offensive not because of the name, but because of how they're portrayed on t-shirts, signs, etc. We would never allow a mascot to be a black person stripped down to a loincloth with a savage smile and holding a war axe. We would never allow a team to be called the Jews. Perhaps Native Americans are too sensitive about this. I certainly don't believe that anyone supporting a mascot is doing it to consciously insult Native Americans. It's that unconscious layer of prejudice that Native Americans are trying to get it. To raise awareness that such names are more than advertising slogans. That a real people are tired of being marginized. Is attacking mascots the way to do it? Probably not, but it does bring a lot of media attention. It does get people talking. However, does anyone believe that changing the mascots names will end that prejudice? If they do, they are deluded. Society changes slowly in response to pressure. The mascot question is just part of that pressure.
Now, how do I feel about it? Mascot names don't bother me. I don't know if it's because they shouldn't or because I've been indoctrinated to be that way. Various people on both sides of the questions would say one or the other. I can only point out that using the mascot question to get media attention will end when all the mascot names have changed. And then where will we be?
And finally, as an aside to my Native American friends, why is it okay to name our casinos that way we do? Apparently it's okay for us to use such names, just not the white folk. And that is wrong. Either the names are sacred or they are not. Let's not be hypocrites.
I remember as a child watching old Westerns and rooting always for the cowboys. It would be a long time before Native Americans would be shown as something noble in movies and on TV. And now that the world is so PC, Native Americans are shown as noble but always doomed. How about a few Native Americans that aren't doomed nor buried by the tragic past, but making their way through the world bravely and proudly? This is off the point, though.
Some of the team mascots are offensive not because of the name, but because of how they're portrayed on t-shirts, signs, etc. We would never allow a mascot to be a black person stripped down to a loincloth with a savage smile and holding a war axe. We would never allow a team to be called the Jews. Perhaps Native Americans are too sensitive about this. I certainly don't believe that anyone supporting a mascot is doing it to consciously insult Native Americans. It's that unconscious layer of prejudice that Native Americans are trying to get it. To raise awareness that such names are more than advertising slogans. That a real people are tired of being marginized. Is attacking mascots the way to do it? Probably not, but it does bring a lot of media attention. It does get people talking. However, does anyone believe that changing the mascots names will end that prejudice? If they do, they are deluded. Society changes slowly in response to pressure. The mascot question is just part of that pressure.
Now, how do I feel about it? Mascot names don't bother me. I don't know if it's because they shouldn't or because I've been indoctrinated to be that way. Various people on both sides of the questions would say one or the other. I can only point out that using the mascot question to get media attention will end when all the mascot names have changed. And then where will we be?
And finally, as an aside to my Native American friends, why is it okay to name our casinos that way we do? Apparently it's okay for us to use such names, just not the white folk. And that is wrong. Either the names are sacred or they are not. Let's not be hypocrites.
Saturday, August 06, 2005
(I posted this on another blog where Republicans were beating up on a Democrat friend of mine. Several people thought it was worth reposting. So here it is.)
I like it when Republicans spend their time arguing. I like it a lot. Because that means you're not out there getting in my way.
Does that sound vain? Well, I recognize my efforts won't do much. After all, the Bible says there will always be poor people and there will always be war and there will always be sin, so maybe we should let it all that happen because after all, what's the point? Isn't it a hopeless battle? We can't win. Let's just all sit here on our big fat white behinds and wait for the Rapture.
Do I sound angry? You bet your sweet ass I'm angry. Do I sound liberal? You're gonna think so. It's easier to peg me there. To write me off. To assume that my stance has no merit rather than to consider it. Why shouldn't you? The Pharisees did it two thousand years ago. If it's good enough for our forefathers, it's good enough for us.
Right?
Of course, there is that little slavery problem back there in the early days of our nation. A lot of the people who forged this country held slaves. But what's a slave between us good old boys? And a lot of our forefathers held religious beliefs that -– and this may be embarrassing to some folks -- we would call "cultist" today. Like old Ben Franklin who was a Deist. (Deists believed that God made the earth and then went off somewhere, maybe playing golf, and left us completely alone to make our way in the world.) Or George Washington, who also held somewhat Deist beliefs, but didn't have much to do with church. Don't blame him. He was a bit busy. He didn't pray at Valley Forge like we've all heard. Well, he might have. We don't know for sure. The so-called "George Washington's Prayer at Valley Forge" was written after he was dead. But he probably prayed. After all, he was at war with an enemy who outgunned him and out-manned him. Oh yeah, I think he prayed.
My point is, and I do have several, is that the miracle of the United States is not that we had Christian forefathers. In fact, modern churches wouldn't consider most of them to be Christians; at least we Baptists wouldn't since they drank, smoked, cussed, etc. The point is that they wanted to see that everyone had the right to believe as they choose. So they wrote that clause in the Constitution. That one saying the state had to stay out of religion and vice versa. Of course, maybe we're taking it too far. Personally I think we should be allowed to teach religion in school. It's part of our history. It's part of our culture. It's part of our literature. We should cover every single faith we can think of. One a week. Or two a week. I think we should have a minute of prayer before every game or event. Not led by anyone, just a moment where everyone prays in his or her own way. Except for the atheists. They can hum or drink beer or just shut their big, uneducated mouths for a minute. Is that conservative or liberal?
What about gay rights? Well, frankly the Democrats should be ashamed of themselves. They let the Republicans make that into an issue. What nonsense. The gays are a minority. They will always be a minority. Best estimates now show they number 3 to 4 percent of the population. In fact, as far as statistics can tell, that's been same number for years. (Now you're going to bring up that 10 percent figure from Masters and Johnson, well reported by the media, but produced by incomplete and flawed data. No scientist accepts that number anymore. Look it up.) So we're talking a small percent of the population, a small percent that isn't gaining in numbers even though they're more visible on TV. If they get married, what happens? Does anyone really think that the nation will collapse? Will dogs foam at the mouth? Will Brad Pitt marry Roseanne? It hasn't happened in any nations that have allowed gay marriage. Do we think that gays will do more damage to marriage than we straights have done and continue to do? We cheat on our spouses, we beat them, we abuse them, we kill them. How could the gays do worse? And if we allow gay marriage, how many gays will even take advantage of it? People say thousands. Guess what? We're a nation of millions. But this is an easy issue to stir people up. People hate gays. HATE THEM. The Republicans used that and will continue to use that as long as the Democrats let them.
If I were making a new Democratic platform, I'd tell the gay rights groups, Not this year. It's not going to happen this year. Probably not for several years. Let's work on keeping you from being beat up or killed or fired from your jobs for your sexual orientation. But marriage isn't going to happen. Let's win the battles we can.
Is that liberal or conservative? Is that bowing to status quo? Maybe. Maybe it's just realistic. I think the Republicans better hope that people of the same mind as me don't draw up the next Democratic platform.
I'm pretty sure that I'm a liberal because I do support the environment. That's because I want my children and their children to have a decent world to live in. Can we trust big business to protect our environment? No, they're driven by the profit motive. They're supposed to be driven by the profit motive. There's nothing wrong with that. But it's stupid, short sighted and woefully naïve to expect them to protect the environment. That's not what they're supposed to be interested in. Oh, there are some notable green businesses out there, but most are not. That's why we have government regulations. That's what a government is supposed to do: to protect our heritage and to give our children something to inherit.
But I might be a conservative because I'm against abortion. Completely again it. Even Republicans like to wimp out and say that it's okay in case of rape or incest or birth defects. Really? If it's okay for those instances, why isn't it okay otherwise? Take a stand, you yellow-bellied weasels. Be for it or be against it. Even God can't stand lukewarm.
Of course, none of this actually addresses what ER (the writer of the blog on which this was originally posted) wanted to do. He wanted to show that liberals and conservatives have both contributed to the greatness of this nation. Notice I said "the greatness of this nation." I didn't say "perfect nation." It's not perfect, but it's better than anything else out there, and if you don't like it and if you don't believe in it, then find yourself some other country and do it fast because this is one erudite redneck who has more guns than most of you have teeth. You stomp on my freedom and I'm going to stomp back. Is that conservative or liberal? If you attempt to claim that for either side, you're missing the point. The point is that it takes both sides to make a great nation. BOTH.
So I'm a proud, gun-toting, pro-life, tree-hugging Democrat. My beliefs and stances have as much validity as anyone else's. I don't give up my right to point out what's wrong with this nation and I don't give up my right to defend it from any sorry bastards who attempt to harm us. Whatever will you do with me? Whatever will I let you do with me?
I like it when Republicans spend their time arguing. I like it a lot. Because that means you're not out there getting in my way.
Does that sound vain? Well, I recognize my efforts won't do much. After all, the Bible says there will always be poor people and there will always be war and there will always be sin, so maybe we should let it all that happen because after all, what's the point? Isn't it a hopeless battle? We can't win. Let's just all sit here on our big fat white behinds and wait for the Rapture.
Do I sound angry? You bet your sweet ass I'm angry. Do I sound liberal? You're gonna think so. It's easier to peg me there. To write me off. To assume that my stance has no merit rather than to consider it. Why shouldn't you? The Pharisees did it two thousand years ago. If it's good enough for our forefathers, it's good enough for us.
Right?
Of course, there is that little slavery problem back there in the early days of our nation. A lot of the people who forged this country held slaves. But what's a slave between us good old boys? And a lot of our forefathers held religious beliefs that -– and this may be embarrassing to some folks -- we would call "cultist" today. Like old Ben Franklin who was a Deist. (Deists believed that God made the earth and then went off somewhere, maybe playing golf, and left us completely alone to make our way in the world.) Or George Washington, who also held somewhat Deist beliefs, but didn't have much to do with church. Don't blame him. He was a bit busy. He didn't pray at Valley Forge like we've all heard. Well, he might have. We don't know for sure. The so-called "George Washington's Prayer at Valley Forge" was written after he was dead. But he probably prayed. After all, he was at war with an enemy who outgunned him and out-manned him. Oh yeah, I think he prayed.
My point is, and I do have several, is that the miracle of the United States is not that we had Christian forefathers. In fact, modern churches wouldn't consider most of them to be Christians; at least we Baptists wouldn't since they drank, smoked, cussed, etc. The point is that they wanted to see that everyone had the right to believe as they choose. So they wrote that clause in the Constitution. That one saying the state had to stay out of religion and vice versa. Of course, maybe we're taking it too far. Personally I think we should be allowed to teach religion in school. It's part of our history. It's part of our culture. It's part of our literature. We should cover every single faith we can think of. One a week. Or two a week. I think we should have a minute of prayer before every game or event. Not led by anyone, just a moment where everyone prays in his or her own way. Except for the atheists. They can hum or drink beer or just shut their big, uneducated mouths for a minute. Is that conservative or liberal?
What about gay rights? Well, frankly the Democrats should be ashamed of themselves. They let the Republicans make that into an issue. What nonsense. The gays are a minority. They will always be a minority. Best estimates now show they number 3 to 4 percent of the population. In fact, as far as statistics can tell, that's been same number for years. (Now you're going to bring up that 10 percent figure from Masters and Johnson, well reported by the media, but produced by incomplete and flawed data. No scientist accepts that number anymore. Look it up.) So we're talking a small percent of the population, a small percent that isn't gaining in numbers even though they're more visible on TV. If they get married, what happens? Does anyone really think that the nation will collapse? Will dogs foam at the mouth? Will Brad Pitt marry Roseanne? It hasn't happened in any nations that have allowed gay marriage. Do we think that gays will do more damage to marriage than we straights have done and continue to do? We cheat on our spouses, we beat them, we abuse them, we kill them. How could the gays do worse? And if we allow gay marriage, how many gays will even take advantage of it? People say thousands. Guess what? We're a nation of millions. But this is an easy issue to stir people up. People hate gays. HATE THEM. The Republicans used that and will continue to use that as long as the Democrats let them.
If I were making a new Democratic platform, I'd tell the gay rights groups, Not this year. It's not going to happen this year. Probably not for several years. Let's work on keeping you from being beat up or killed or fired from your jobs for your sexual orientation. But marriage isn't going to happen. Let's win the battles we can.
Is that liberal or conservative? Is that bowing to status quo? Maybe. Maybe it's just realistic. I think the Republicans better hope that people of the same mind as me don't draw up the next Democratic platform.
I'm pretty sure that I'm a liberal because I do support the environment. That's because I want my children and their children to have a decent world to live in. Can we trust big business to protect our environment? No, they're driven by the profit motive. They're supposed to be driven by the profit motive. There's nothing wrong with that. But it's stupid, short sighted and woefully naïve to expect them to protect the environment. That's not what they're supposed to be interested in. Oh, there are some notable green businesses out there, but most are not. That's why we have government regulations. That's what a government is supposed to do: to protect our heritage and to give our children something to inherit.
But I might be a conservative because I'm against abortion. Completely again it. Even Republicans like to wimp out and say that it's okay in case of rape or incest or birth defects. Really? If it's okay for those instances, why isn't it okay otherwise? Take a stand, you yellow-bellied weasels. Be for it or be against it. Even God can't stand lukewarm.
Of course, none of this actually addresses what ER (the writer of the blog on which this was originally posted) wanted to do. He wanted to show that liberals and conservatives have both contributed to the greatness of this nation. Notice I said "the greatness of this nation." I didn't say "perfect nation." It's not perfect, but it's better than anything else out there, and if you don't like it and if you don't believe in it, then find yourself some other country and do it fast because this is one erudite redneck who has more guns than most of you have teeth. You stomp on my freedom and I'm going to stomp back. Is that conservative or liberal? If you attempt to claim that for either side, you're missing the point. The point is that it takes both sides to make a great nation. BOTH.
So I'm a proud, gun-toting, pro-life, tree-hugging Democrat. My beliefs and stances have as much validity as anyone else's. I don't give up my right to point out what's wrong with this nation and I don't give up my right to defend it from any sorry bastards who attempt to harm us. Whatever will you do with me? Whatever will I let you do with me?
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
BAH!
Bah to stinking Microsoft Windows and their terrible customer support! May a thousand poxes descend upon their wretched forms and torment them mercilessly day and night until madness reigns free in their tiny, unhelpful, rude minds!
Ahem. I am a bit upset. My computer problems continue. It does not seem to be a hardware problem, rather one brought on by those endless updates that Microsoft sends out. Or maybe not. It's impossible to tell. I'm beginning to think that my computer has been possessed by an evil spirit. I'd sacrifice a Microsoft Customer Service Rep to it if I thought it would help. (It would help my feelings!)
I've been pricing new computer systems. Sigh. To get what I need, I'm going to have to spend $600 or so. I know that's an amazing price considering how expensive computers were a few years ago, but when you don't have money, $600 is as impossible as $1,500. And then two major software programs that I use will have to be upgraded (Another $200) as the versions I have won't work with XP. (I still use Windows ME. Yes, I know, I know, I should upgrade. Got an extra $100 you'd like to send me? No, wait, I need $300 to upgrade Publisher, Elements and XP. Arggghhhh! And there's no guarantee that XP would even fix the problems I'm experiencing.)
Okay, enough whining. It's still continuing to limp along. It's going to last a few more months if I'm careful with it. I'll start saving now, and maybe by July, I'll have enough to buy a new computer. Or upgrade. Or maybe just run away.
Ahem. I am a bit upset. My computer problems continue. It does not seem to be a hardware problem, rather one brought on by those endless updates that Microsoft sends out. Or maybe not. It's impossible to tell. I'm beginning to think that my computer has been possessed by an evil spirit. I'd sacrifice a Microsoft Customer Service Rep to it if I thought it would help. (It would help my feelings!)
I've been pricing new computer systems. Sigh. To get what I need, I'm going to have to spend $600 or so. I know that's an amazing price considering how expensive computers were a few years ago, but when you don't have money, $600 is as impossible as $1,500. And then two major software programs that I use will have to be upgraded (Another $200) as the versions I have won't work with XP. (I still use Windows ME. Yes, I know, I know, I should upgrade. Got an extra $100 you'd like to send me? No, wait, I need $300 to upgrade Publisher, Elements and XP. Arggghhhh! And there's no guarantee that XP would even fix the problems I'm experiencing.)
Okay, enough whining. It's still continuing to limp along. It's going to last a few more months if I'm careful with it. I'll start saving now, and maybe by July, I'll have enough to buy a new computer. Or upgrade. Or maybe just run away.
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
My Christmas
I spent my Christmas with my sister and her family. We laughed a lot and ate a lot! I came home pleasantly tired and watched Christmas programs on TV until I gratefully climbed into bed. It was a good Christmas after all.
And now it's TECH's turn to post!
And now it's TECH's turn to post!
Thursday, December 09, 2004
The idea unrealized
When I started this blog, I thought I would have plenty to say. It turned out that I didn't. So it languished.
In talking with my friend TECH of 51313 Harbor Street, we decided to add him as a team member, the idea being that we'd both be able to post and thus develop an ongoing dynamic. We have both posted, but we thus far have been unable to make the posts show up as one and then the other. They all show up as mine or his. We're going to keep working on this problem, but bear with us.
A good point to remember: If the post is talking about tech toys, it's probably TECH. If the post is about romance, it's probably me. I hope that helps.
In talking with my friend TECH of 51313 Harbor Street, we decided to add him as a team member, the idea being that we'd both be able to post and thus develop an ongoing dynamic. We have both posted, but we thus far have been unable to make the posts show up as one and then the other. They all show up as mine or his. We're going to keep working on this problem, but bear with us.
A good point to remember: If the post is talking about tech toys, it's probably TECH. If the post is about romance, it's probably me. I hope that helps.
Monday, December 06, 2004
Flash Drives
I told you already about how much I like my DVD player. Just as much I like my USB Flash Drives. I have several, including ones by PNY, Lexar and Sandisk. I have one 64 meg drive, a couple 128 meg drives, and the rest are 256 megs. They all work perfectly well and are a great alternative to carrying a box of floppies around - as long as the computer you're trying to use has USB ports, and most do.
The great advantage of floppies is that nearly every computer will accept them. That's why diskettes continue to be with us even though everyone agrees they're old tech. No one has come with anything that's so widely accepted. But flash drives - and their more-equipment challenged siblings flash cards - are poised to take the place of floppies. Wish I had bought stock in the companies producing them a few years ago.
The great advantage of floppies is that nearly every computer will accept them. That's why diskettes continue to be with us even though everyone agrees they're old tech. No one has come with anything that's so widely accepted. But flash drives - and their more-equipment challenged siblings flash cards - are poised to take the place of floppies. Wish I had bought stock in the companies producing them a few years ago.
Friday, December 03, 2004
Christmas gifts I don't want
I appreciate all my friends and family thinking of me at Christmas, but despite the humbug factor, I want to mention gifts I don't want.
Nick-knacks of any kind. My house is soooo stuffed with things that I can't hardly move. Nothing more to dust, please.
Hard candy of any kind. My teeth would appreciate it.
Perfume. I rarely wear it.
Bath oils. They leave a ring on the tub, and since my servants quit, I hate to clean the tub. I shower anyway.
Clothes. You don't know my sizes or tastes. Don't torture both of us, you with trying to find something that you think I will like, and me with trying to smile and thank you and then having to return it.
Yes, bah humbug to me, too, but listen, I do love you for you thinking of me at all. And to make things simple for you. Here are a few things that are perfect for me and easy for you, too:
Gift certificates for Wal-Mart or Blockbuster.
Simple scented candles. Nothing elaborate.
Socks. White. Cotton. Short. Easy.
Chocolate of any kind, but particularly chocolate oranges. Deeelicious.
This list should help us both out.
Merry Christmas, my peeps, and Happy New Year!
Nick-knacks of any kind. My house is soooo stuffed with things that I can't hardly move. Nothing more to dust, please.
Hard candy of any kind. My teeth would appreciate it.
Perfume. I rarely wear it.
Bath oils. They leave a ring on the tub, and since my servants quit, I hate to clean the tub. I shower anyway.
Clothes. You don't know my sizes or tastes. Don't torture both of us, you with trying to find something that you think I will like, and me with trying to smile and thank you and then having to return it.
Yes, bah humbug to me, too, but listen, I do love you for you thinking of me at all. And to make things simple for you. Here are a few things that are perfect for me and easy for you, too:
Gift certificates for Wal-Mart or Blockbuster.
Simple scented candles. Nothing elaborate.
Socks. White. Cotton. Short. Easy.
Chocolate of any kind, but particularly chocolate oranges. Deeelicious.
This list should help us both out.
Merry Christmas, my peeps, and Happy New Year!
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
DVD Burner Heaven
I have a Sony DVD burner. Love it! It burns almost all of the DVD formats. I've been able to store all my photos on a handful of DVDs. Excellent. The technology is advanced enough that you can really trust it. I've always had good luck with Sony products, and I'm pleased with this one.
Sunday, August 08, 2004
Happy Writing
I really am happy writing. I like it better than almost anything else. Perhaps this shows a willingness to leave this world and retreat into a world of my own devising. Certainly I've been accused of daydreaming enough in my life.
Getting published and being able to support myself by writing would be realization of a life-long dream. It's what I work for daily. And even when I'm not writing, I'm thinking about it. My life revolves around it. I have to be careful to make sure that it doesn't co-op time that needs to go to God, my family and my friends. It's that important to me.
This blog will cover my attempts to write and what I learn. I'm looking forward to it.
Getting published and being able to support myself by writing would be realization of a life-long dream. It's what I work for daily. And even when I'm not writing, I'm thinking about it. My life revolves around it. I have to be careful to make sure that it doesn't co-op time that needs to go to God, my family and my friends. It's that important to me.
This blog will cover my attempts to write and what I learn. I'm looking forward to it.
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