Blogging Reflection

I have learned how to present myself through blogging daily while moving forward in my writing fluency. Most days, I have progressed in my word count and I have learned how to apply myself on a daily basis in writing. This exercise has broadened my outlook and understanding of what it is to blog daily. It takes a commitment to open myself to my writing and gives me a new voice through my blog. I am a very private person in general, and it took me some time to find my voice. The great thing about a personal blog is that I have complete control of what I write. At first, I thought "Who would want to hear about my daily experiences and views on topics? But after a couple of days, people started to respond to my thoughts and share their opinions and views. It has been a eye-opening exercise for me in general. I really didn't know what blogging was all about before I tried it. Sure, I had heard of it, but did not really understand all it entails.

Blogging is a good way to express yourself, while learning more about yourself through writing your thoughts out. My wife and I have had many conversations pertaining to my thoughts in blogging, and we have bonded through the process. For me personally, I have found a voice previously unknown to me. I feel like a more well-rounded writer and plan on continuing my blog in the future. I did not realize how much stuff I had to say about my son, wife, and my overall daily life experiences. Just like with music, I feel that I have found a new companion in writing. I posted a previous blog on writing before I knew that our last blog would be a reflection of our lesson experience. I guess the significance of blogging was already apparent to me. I still have a long way to go in professional writing, but as professor Anthony told us, "You are a writer." I have learned to embrace and believe that fact as I progressed through the class. I might not be the best writer, but a writer I am.

My Birthday

Today, July 18th, is my birthday. Ever since 21 it was all downhill. I have had an eventful life so far. I am not ashamed to say that I turned 32 today. I don't really feel different than last year, or the year before that, but i am looking forward to the rest of my thirties. I have a lot of living left to do and look forward to watching my son grow up. I have some more places that I would like to travel, people that I'd like to meet, and I want to focus on being a better person in the future. One thing that I have learned in my 32 years, is that it doesn't matter how much money you make, or things that you have, life is about cherishing those fading moments with loved ones. I'm sorry if this is short but I have some more cake to eat now.

kayaking

Yesterday my wife and I went kayaking on Taneycomo lake in Branson. Although the banks were still up a little from the recent rain, we still were able to enjoy our kayaking trip. I have only been kayaking twice in my life and enjoy the scenery of wildlife, trees, and the calming effect of just floating down the river. My wife and I used seperate kayaks and floated beside each other and talked for a decent amount of the trip. It was a nice environment to discuss life's problems and future plans. There is nothing more peaceful than being out in nature for me. The whole trip took about 3 hours and we ended up coming ashore next to the Branson Landing. Luckily, my wife was not dressed to go shopping! I recommend going kayaking to anyone who appreciates the slow things in life and nature. It is a good way to clear your head of your problems and worries. I can't wait until my son gets old enough to try it.

dreams

I have often wondered and studied a little into the meaning of dreams. I have learned that many have the dream of not being able to move as some horrific event unfolds. This is a representation of not having control over a situation. People that have these dreams often feel helpless in some situation whether it involves work or personal issues. The dream of falling is another common dream people have. I have never had this dream. I dream of flying freely through the air instead. I don't know if this means that I want to escape from something, or just that i feel free? I find it very interesting that our brain works these images into our dreams based on events and emotions that we are going through. Studies have said that we only use 10 percent of our brain. It makes one wonder what would be possible if we used half or all of our brain. I think it would "blow our mind", pun intended. I think as humans go through another 1,000 years, they will use more of their brains than ever. I won't be around for that, but it is interesting to ponder. Good lord willing, I think that humans today wouldn't even recognize the traits and abilities our future race will attain. Sometimes I wonder if God intended us to use all of our brain, or if he just gives us access to what we need? These answers will never be answered until I meet the big man upstairs. I digress, I do believe that dreams have a significant meaning to each individual. Maybe I should be a Psychologist. I bet studying the human condition would be very challenging and enlightening.

the future

The future is something that we have no control or grasp on. We go through this life, just doing the best we can, hoping for the best in the future. The future has endless possibilities and endless questions. I don't think we are meant to know what is going to happen for a reason in the future. Don't you think it would change everything knowing what was to come? I t would change one's actions and thoughts therefore changing the future itself. I know I am getting deep today, but I woke up wondering about my future. Everything hangs in the balance on what happens in the future. I had a dream last night that I could go in the past and change events. I guess I've seen one too many sci-fi movies. I'm pretty sure it had to do with me watching the movie "Project Almanac." Going in the past changes future events, but if one could go in the future, it would not change past events. only future events after the future become the past. It's a brain twister, I know. Anyway, I think that we are suppose to live in the present and just live our lives the best we know. Just to make the best decisions at any given moment and push on through our journey in life. I think I'll watch "Back To The Future" now and see if I have any break-throughs in time travel after I watch it?

Fishing

Fishing has always been an a favorite past-time for my family. My father used to take me when I was a small boy to the James and Finley rivers to fish. Yes, I can still remember my first fishing pole. It was a spiderman kids pole that didn't effectively catch fish for me. My dad would let me practice with his, but I just kept throwing it in the water. I finally got the hang of it, or should I say a hold on it, and began my fishing career. Some people might say, "fishing is boring" but there is a peace about casting your line, while waiting for that bite. I have always found it calming to fish. No matter what is going on in my life, I can have complete control over my fishing experience. Patience is not a virtue of mine, but fishing is different somehow. I find myself at peace with the world while fishing. I recently took my son to the river and showed him how to fish. I couldn't help but think about my father and how I was keeping the tradition going. My son was more excited about throwing rocks in the water. All in due time. He will get the hang of it just like I did. It's not about the fish you catch, it's about the memories made and the appreciation of the sport.

 My son went fishing with his great-grandpa and caught his first fish a couple days ago. Although I wish that I was there to see it, I am happy for his accomplishment of catching his first fish. There will be plenty of time to catch fish in the future. I can't wait to take my son on our next fishing excursion.  I guess after we get the art down, we can move on to skinning and preparing the fish to eat.

Writing

I have learned how to write more efficiently and fluently through my blogs. My thoughts present themselves in a more complete representation of my points and feelings. I haven't ever blogged before, and find it liberating and satisfying to write each day. My blogs might not interest everyone who reads them, but I still find my writing important to me. Writing is physical activity for my mind. Not unlike working out my muscles in weight training, writing these blogs is training my brain. I have found out things that I believed or thought, that previously evaded me through writing my blogs. My wife and I have read them and discussed in length my thought process. I have never kept a journal or written in this fashion. I find myself examining and thinking on different levels after blogging daily.

Writing is a new form of expressing myself. I play music and sing daily, but I have found that writing expresses a different side of me. I have delved deeper into my creative self, while finding out new things about myself on a daily basis. Like I said, it might not mean anything to someone else, but my words make an impact on me. I have a long way to go with writing, but I feel that I have found a companion in writing. I look forward to continuing blogging my thoughts and experiences as a form of expression. My wife loves writing, so we have found a new commonality together. I think that she is even going to start a daily blog of her own.

Swimming

Since I was a kid I have enjoyed going to the pool and swimming. My grandparents used to have a pool and my brother and I would go every other day all summer. We would play with cousins, friends and celebrate being a kid. I am passing that tradition to my son. We just got back from the pool today, where we played, splash and generally enjoyed the sun and each other's company. Growing up in the ozarks has led me to the lakes on several occasions. We used to have a boat in the family that we could take out when we wanted. I always say that I grew up in the wrong place. I should have been raised by the beach in Florida or California. I have always loved the water and appreciated the relaxing qualities of laying aimlessly in the sun.We are entering the hot, dry part of the year, so here comes the sun. I love this time of the year. Well, as long as the air conditioner is working.

Playing Disney Infinity with my son

i never thought that playing as Thor and Iron crashing through the city swatting down bad guys would be interesting to me. I bought Disney Infinity for my son and I to get some super hero time together. The graphics are pretty basic, but I have to say that playing these super heroes with my son is very fun. When we get tired of punching and shooting the ice giants, we turn on each other and deliver family mayhem. Any time that I get with my son is well appreciated, so I knew that he has been into The Avengers lately. I bought the bundle starter pack and away we went to save the world! He really enjoys the game and I even have gotten my wife in on the carnage. Of course she has to be black widow and ninja around while shooting her laser. All in all, The Avengers have brought my family closer together Thank you Disney! that is for giving me an excuse to play this game at 31 years young.

Weather

It is amazing to me how the weather in the ozarks changes from year to year. We have had more rain in June and into July than I can ever remember. Usually my yard is in the process of dying, but it is green and full of life. I drove over to my mother's house to see my nephew and saw a school building and three businesses flooded a foot up their foundations. My drive took me by the Finley river which had turned into a raging monster destroying everything in it's path. The river had gone feet above it's banks. I probably should have taken another route, like the highway, to go to my mom's house. I was stuck in traffic for thirty minutes. I work down in Branson and have seen the flooding caused by the rain saturate the city, I have seen on the news how people are having to be evacuated in Carthage and areas all over south- western Missouri. I pray for those people's safety. I am dumb-founded by the amount of rain the area is getting. Hopefully, the rain is through with us for now, and we can enjoy the summer in the following months. It's funny, because I bet I will be praying for rain by the end of July. It has definitely had an effect on my mowing this year. My yard looks like a jungle as I look out of my window.  Luckily I live at the top of a hill, so I do not have water standing in my yard. I guess it goes to show that we never know what the weather in the ozarks has in store for us. I think that I will go mow my yard now. I can't stand looking at it any longer. Wish me luck! Here is a picture of the flooding in Ozark.

Coffee

Coffee has always been a "must have" daily ritual, or habit. My day would not be complete without a pot of coffee acting as my "starting fluid." I stole that one from my wife's grandpa. He always says that he can't start up without it. It doesn't matter what kind of coffee it is, I'll drink it. Columbian, organic, bold, smooth, just as long as it's not decaf. What's the point in drinking decaf. I guess if you like the taste, then that's your prerogative. I drink coffee in the morning and at night, before I go to work. I think I'm addicted to it. On the rare occasion that I miss my daily dose, I am edgy and usually get a headache from lack of caffeine. Ok, this is me telling the world that I'm a coffee addict! You heard it from the horse's mouth. I feel somewhat liberated. Anyway, i don't think I am the only one. It seems like every other person I meet swears by it. I think there are a lot worse habits. I'll take my chances. I even like coffee flavored candy, ice cream and candles. No, I didn't go out and buy the candle, my wife got it for me. She told me when she gave it to me, "Just don't eat it!" Tempting, but I think I'll pass. I often wonder what people did before coffee was produced? Maybe they just hit each other in the face and said, "wake up!" Anyway, keep making the coffee, I'll keep buying it.

Indiana Jones

July 8

The Indiana Jones movies are my favorite movie series. Going on these adventures with Harrison Ford has been near to my heart since I was a kid. I have recently heard that they are making a new one. Although "The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull" was a bit of a let down, I still am excited that there will be another one. When I first saw "The Raiders Of The Lost Ark" it changed my appreciation of movies. Since then, I have seen it dozens of times and enjoy it more every time. The second movie is "The Temple Of Doom", followed by "The Last Crusade". The adventures Indy goes on are every every boy's dream. I like how even though the movies are serious, there is never a lack of comic relief in the series. Indiana fights the Germans and their schemes always include action packed moments in the movies. One of my favorite moments is when Indy stands of against a villain who is weilding duel swords. Indy just stops and pulls out his gun, shooting the guy and moving on. Somehow, it is hilarious how he just shoots this skilled warrior.

Indiana is a professor who is always searching for lost treasure. Although the original movies are older now, they have become staples of cinema and still hold their weight against any new films in the genre. In every movie, Indy has a sidekick or buddy who accompanies him through his journeys. They always are cracking jokes and adding comic relief to him in dire situations. Harrison Ford also finds himself in tricky situations involving a woman who always falls in love with him. Between all of these aspects, Indiana always prevails by a little luck and faith. I urge my readers to stop everything their doing and watch the first three movies if they haven't already seen them. It doesn't matter your age or sex, the Indiana Jones series has something to offer for everyone. I know this is "high praise", but try them out and tell me if I am wrong? Long live Indiana Jones.

Fantastic field trip

July 7

I took my son to Fantastic Caverns on a father-son field trip recently. I ask my son if he would like to go spelunking at the caverns and he said "I go in cave daddy." My son is almost four years old, so I thought it was time to enlighten him on the mysteries of subterranean culture.  This was one of my favorite places to go as a kid, so I guess I got something out of it too. At first he was scared to go in, but after we were looking at stalagmites and stalagtites, he was in awe. I forgot how cool the tours are at Fantastic Caverns. My sone kept saying, "Ooh, pretty horns!" He is really into dinosaurs, so I guess every pointy thing looks like a horn to him? I quit trying to explain and just enjoyed the time with him. He's only a little dude, I'll have plenty of time to explain later. When we got out and walked around, he kept trying to tell other people, "I am a dragon and I'll eat you." Ok, this is kind of embarrassing, but you've got to admit that it's pretty darn cute. I guess my son has my imagination. Maybe that is the reason we get along so well? I apologized and all was well. The people were good sports. No matter how well you try to guide your child, they are still "a child." What are you going to do? My son didn't want to leave and ask if we could live there in the cave. I laughed and said that we have moved on from that, and re-directed him with a promise of ice cream. Parenting is 90% bribery. In the end, we made a lasting memory and got our fill of ice cream. I think it is important to make memories that your child will cherish. They are only kids once, enjoy it while it lasts. Unless he's like me, I never grew up.

Music

Music has always been near to my heart and I connect with the emotion that is displayed through it. I have always had a wide variety of music to listen to through my life. It does not matter what emotion or mindset I am in, music always talks to me in a way that soothes my mind.  That what music is for, right? People have been producing music for an untold time putting their thoughts and feelings into it. Think of Mozart or Beethoven producing their beautiful concerto's. Where does all of that music come from? It comes from one's heart and experiences. Music is the perfect avenue to make a statement, sometimes without saying a word. I can feel the anger or the love portrayed in songs. Look at the differences in Metallica's songs compared to George Strait. Different demographics have different types of methods and genres, making different points. I think it is great that the world has music being a soundtrack to people's lives. I have been lucky enough to perform music my whole life. I do not know what I would do without this release. I also play the guitar and piano. Instruments speak through their strings and notes too. I can play a guitar and reflect the mood I am. Every instrument has it's voice and this voice can be used by the player to produce a personal song. I have written music since I was a kid and it has helped me through good and bad times. Music is a friend who is always there if your heart is open. Everyone has a different way of speaking through music and that is what makes it so dynamic. Just the other day I wrote a song for my son that he is still singing days later. There is nothing more heartwarming than thinking that, through music, my son is happy and content.

4th of July

5 July 2015

I think that it is amazing that this country still celebrates making a big deal out of America's Independence Day. This country was founded on freedom from other rule and tyranny. I cannot imagine how our fore fathers would view national fireworks celebrations today. I would like to think that they would be in awe of the importance Independence Day still holds to America. Celebrating our freedom has always been easy for Americans to do. America is the most diverse and accepting nation as a whole. America's diversity is due to the way it's principles were founded. Independence Day is more than just the day the Declaration of Independence was signed, it's about encompasing everything we have accomplished in the name of America. The Statue of Liberty stands in the harbor to show a physical representation of freedom. America has never been shy to make examples of it's beliefs and values. A lot of other countries are threatened and offended by what this country stands for, but that's what makes America who she is. An ever adapting society who only wants to express itself and be free from oppressive actions and mandates. Long live America and God bless her longevity! If this country knows how to do one thing, it's to celebrate.

Florida

Recently my wife, son and I went to Florida. We drove there after work one night and sixteen hours later, there we were. My son is three so we had to stop several times for feeding and potty breaks. All in all it was pretty painless. We rented a condo in Destin, Fl. and the moment I pulled up to it, I was amazed at how close the ocean was. The beach was breathtaking and my son swam in his first ocean. We made sandcastles and felt the water on our toes. I say we, because my wife and son would not go in the water. I guess my wife has watched one too many episodes of "Shark Week"? My wifes grandparents and my family all were at the beach for three days. This is only the third time that I have gone to the ocean. Coincidently, this has been in Florida all three times. We drove out through the city and found many places to shop and eat. I left the shopping to the ladies while I hang out back at the beach. The restaurants were amazing! Two of them were right on the water, permitting an awesome view while eating. I found it relaxing to lay on the beach, close my eyes, and listen to all of those foriegn sounds like seagulls screeching, the wave's anthem steadily sweeping it's tempo to the sand and back again.  I have said since I was a kid that I wanted to live by the ocean. The few chances I have had have been amazing memories for me. My wife and I often joke about moving to live by the ocean and I would just be a beach bum and wax surfboards. Obviously we will have to figure something different out for me before we can do that. Although, one never knows where they will end up. I there's one thing in this life that I know, it is that life is unpredictable.

Branson Missouri

July 3rd 2015

Branson Missouri is the town I grew up in. I have seen the town prosper and recently digress into a struggling music city. The lakes and the landing are bringing in the dough, but the shows are suffering. I think the reason is a changing economy and different generations wants. We have changed our show, but shows in Branson are a dime a dozen. People do not know the good shows from the bad. It all boils down to the cheapest tickets. People come to our show that know the history and appreciate what we stand for. That does not make up for the new generation's views on Branson as a whole. It is harder to market to the younger generations now. Being the first show in Branson does not pack the house like it used to. Do not get me wrong, we still hold our own. The problem is that there are over 100 shows now in Branson. Many who sell tickets through outlets who price them at half the cost of other shows. The ticket outlets have had a huge impact on the situation in the town. People are going to go to a show that they can get the whole family in for the price of 2 people at others. Are you really making more money letting 2 people in for the price of 1? No, but it takes people away from the quality shows in my view. I do not know how to fix it. Branson has changed in the last 10 years exponentially. The key is to advertise while maintaining the reputation of value for the show. It is a tricky problem indeed. The Baldknobbers just need to produce a quality show that makes memories for the whole family. So they will come back over and over again while educating the public on the importance of shows that make quality product. I am sure Branson will change in the future and we just need to push through this problem.

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Juggling college, work and family

July 2nd, 2015

Juggling college, work and family is not always easy. I have found that it is possible though. Management of time is the key. I work nights so I find it productive to do homework after I get home from work. This way I have time with my family in the afternoon. I have a few hours to do work in the day, but when everyone is sleeping at night seems to be the best time for me to concentrate. I have some friends that have different schedules and different study patterns. I guess it is whatever works best for your situation. Sometimes it is tough to stay up after work, but I always seem to complete my assignments on time. I do not know what I would do if I was sick or my son did not sleep well through the night. I guess I would just do as much as I could while taking care of him. I have only started college and have not had to go physically to college. I guess I will figure that out and manage my time accordingly. My cousin is going to her school while trying to be a mom and work. She is not being able to get all of her work done and struggling with the whole concept. It really does just come down to evaluating your time and proceeding accordingly. I have found college fun and challenging to this point. I just hope that I can keep the pace in the rest of my courses. Things like doctors appointments and special work functions are coming up, so we'll see what happens? I guess I should just take it a day at a time while doing my best to keep up. I have an optimistic view on life, so I think I will do fine. I wish I could go back to my younger self and say "you have really got it easy, enjoy yourself." I think I would also tell myself to get college done so I would already have accomplished my degree. Man, that would be nice. Oh well, hindsight is 20\20. Everything happens for a reason, and all in it's  own time. All I can do is move forward, I cannot go back.

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Writers Workbench

In researching the Writers Workbench I was refreshed on tools I need to write well. I have been out of shcool for 13 years and definitely needed the help. Some things started coming back to me that I learned in school, but many more I didn't know or remember. Taking out un-needed adverbs is a tool I need to work on. I am always using exceedingly, absolutely, and other repedititive words in my writing. It's amazing how much one can forget when not applying it to their daily lives. What is the saying, "If you don't use it, you lose it?" This has been the case with me. Another key element of writing that I need to work on is cutting out the fat in my work. I agree with mr. Clark on the fact that we fall in love with our writing and can put our whole thinking process into our writing instead of just putting in the needed content. I could go on all day long writing about every thought that crosses my mind, but this isn't necessary. It's all about editing all of that out and then putting the little bit needed to sustain your view or point. I'm sure I just did it there. Oh well. I'm freewriting. I can do that. One topic that interested me was using a powerful verb to give your character's actions depth. That makes complete sense to me. I just did the adverb thing again. Dang it. At least I'm noticing it now. I am baffled by the intricacies of writing, but I feel I have a better understanding of writing well. I'm going to refer to mr. Clark's Writers workbench from now on, or at least until I feel I am progressing well in my writing I really enjoy Ian Flemming's James Bond books, maybe I'll just read more of them to acuire a better verb writing stance. They call me Mabe, Denton Mabe.

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My wife

I got married 8 years ago to my beautiful wife Elizabeth. She was originaly from Warrington outside of St. Louis Missouri. I met her at my job where she was so shy and wouldn't talk to me at first. I finally went over to talk to her and the rest is history. We have had our ups and downs like any married couple. Call it marriage growing pains maybe. She is the best thing that ever happened to me and I thank God every day for her. I know what youre thinking, he has to say that, but I really mean every word of it. Since she has come along I have truly grown up and come to understand what a marriage is all about. It takes patience and commitment beyond anything I have ever attempted. But through working together, a marriage bares fruit for a happy and healthy life. I don't know what I was thinking or doing in my plan for life before I met her, but I know that 8 years later we have an excellent understanding and appreciation for each other. My wife went took a leap of faith for me by moving away from everything that she ever knew to be with me. I can't think of anyone else that has made that kind of commitment in my name. I wake up every day and see our love growing and changing in our marriage. We have a 4 years old son and two dogs. Call it a family! Being with the one that I was meant for makes me a better, more productive person. Sharing my life with the one I love is the best feeling in the world. You know when something just feels right? Following my heart has always been easy for me. That's why I know this works. My wife continues to challenge my character and guide me on paths that otherwise I would have not taken. It's truly a blessing being in a loving marriage. My wife is my other half, and together, we make our dreams come true. I can't believe she picked an old dog like me. I definitely married up!

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Cars

I have always been obsessed with cars. Old, new, modified, it doesn't matter. I can find something to appreciate from almost any vehicle. I find myself looking and appreciating all different kind of cars when I'm driving. My wife says it's a guy thing, and maybe that's true. I have several friends that feel the same way. I know that cars are like boats, just money pits that depreciate in value every day. That fact doesn't stop me from really admiring these metal beasts. I'm a Chevy guy, so Camaros and pickup trucks really excite me. Even though everybody and their brother seem to drive one, I still find myself starring at them. I had a 98' 1500 Chevrolet step side truck when I was a teenager. I lifted it up and put big tires on it and truely cherished that truck. That was back before I had a child and more important priorities. I drive a chevy malibu now. A great family sedan, but no Camaro. It's amazing how your priorities change when you have a family. I wouldn't trade them for any car. I think my car obsession is passing to my son. He always says "look at that big truck", or "nice car dude". This amuses me greatly. It does not amuse my wife. She says "I don't need two of you talking about cars all the time now." I also like the Dodge Charger. I would prefer a classic model, but I also like the new ones. One day when I am rich "hahaha" I'll have my choice of cars to purchase. That is after I get done paying for my son's college.

Driving to work

I am driving to work yesterday and my transit is about 30 miles south on 65 highway to Branson. Before I can even get to the highway I had a dog run out in front of me and had to slam on my brakes to avoid him. Luckily no one was injured. Maybe a little jarred, but that ok. As soon as I get on the highway my tire pressure light goes on so I pull over. I've got a nail in my tire. Great! Just what I need. I start to wonder if the dog placed it under my tire... hahaha! Just kidding. After I change to my donut tire I'm covered in grease and a little irritated. That's ok, I say and go on. As I get on the highway and drive about 10 miles, a car pulls out from a side road THE WRONG WAY! That's right, I'm cruising down the highway with 3 good tires, and a donut for the 4th at 60mph when this happens. I burn rubber, not in a fun way, along with my brake pads again to avoid this confused older woman who looks at me like it was my fault. Luckily, no one was behind me and I avoided all confrontation and continued to work. I am breathing easier and 2 miles from my exit, when I heard a "pop" from the left rear tire. I pull off of the road once again and see that my donut had a hole in it. Yeah, I think, feeling my blood pressure rising.  I can't get to work on 3 tires, so I call a buddy at work to pick me up on the way. It all works out and after work I get back to my car with another spare when I realize that someone had busted in my back windshield with a rock that still sat in my backseat floorboard. I throw my hands up and get in my car and drive home with the sound ofwind and glass wondering what I had done wrong in the universe to deserve this evening.

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The Heart And The Fist

The Heart And The Fist by Eric Greitens is a fast paced, real life thrill ride. It's also a heartwreanching glimse into societies that I wasn't familiar with. I learned so much from Eric's military experience. I can't believe that people have to go through that much to obtain the title of Navy Seal. Even at the academy Greitens was challenged, but nothing like Seal training. When Eric has to do through Hell Week in traing to be a seal, I could'nt believe the choas that he and his fellow recruits went through. Greitens is a born leader, so he leads his team around some obstacles and directs them in the best path. It was amusing to me when Eric said that it's not the meat heads that make the cut. It's the iron willed, Damascus steel hearted, men who prevail. Not the blow hards, the doers. The amount of charity work and giving that Eric does in his journeys is touching. He gives kids food when walking down the street, takes needy kids to soccer games, and does several other simple acts of kindness that build up into a legacy. It takes real courage to do these acts. Reading this book makes me want to go out and start helping people with a more hands on approach. Not just donate money, but look in their eyes and try to help personaly. I'm not saying that I could achieve that, just reflecting on doing good deeds. I think that more people need to be like Eric Greitens and this world would be a better place.  I can only hope that my life story will seem as meaningful when I tell my story. Most likely that will be told to my kids, not nationwide.

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Know Your Audience Analysis

I really enjoyed reading everyone's questions and comments on the discussion board. In reading the "what is your dream job" answers I was surprised at how selfless a lot of my classmates were. Dream occupations included registered nurse, psychiatrist, school nurse and working at a nonprofit animal shelter. People that want to give for the wellbeing of others often the happiest in my view. I did not answer this question, but would have to say that I love to sing. I do that for a living now. If I had to pick another occupation, it would definitely be one that helps people. I have a big heart and find joy in helping others.

Professor Anthony's question about what color is your attitude really got me thinking. I immediately felt like I knew the class a little better by how they represented their attitudes with colors. I could relate to aspects of all colors, but to pick one was a little tricky. I also enjoyed Abbie Jones's answer to Carrie Sandwald's what three people past, present, and future; would you have dinner with. One of Abbie's answers was her future self. Think of all the things one could learn and change. That would be a very interesting conversation. Although, sometimes I think we are not meant to know what the future holds.

Our class has answered through the discussion:

1: Hawaii or other tropical destinations are the favorite places to live. I think that tropical destinations are high on the list because of where we live. Maybe it would be different if we lived in Florida?
2: Our classes favorite flowers are roses, followed by lilies and daisies. My choice would be calla lilies. My wife and I love the shape and design of these flowers.
3: Top choice for a roommate are family or friends. No one beats a family member or trusted friend with living with you. I would like to answer this question now by saying my wife. My wife and I have been roommates for eight years, and I have grown to trust and appreciate her more with each passing day. I can not imagine a day without her.

One thing that surprised me was the classes favorite singers. I have not even heard of some of these artists and I am a singer. I guess I am just getting old and out of touch with the times. It is amazing to me how much this country has to offer in different varieties of music. Music has been the focus of my life and I am always open to different kinds from all over. I will have to check in on some of these artists.

I believe that I have learned a lot more about my classmates through these discussions and I have had a glimpse into knowing them better. I have some new music to listen to, different flowers to appreciate, a wider belief in family values, some new vacation destinations and a deeper respect for my classmates. I am amazed at the commonalities of my class. It just goes to show you that the people in this world are not always so different.

The Doctor

I went to the doctor today to have my annual checkup. I always get nervous when I go to my doctor. Even though I've always been healthy and never had any problems, I guess I am thinking that this is the time that I'm going to get bad news. There is something about going into a room and sitting with all of these cold tables and utensils that just seems alien. When the doctor comes in, he is always pleasant, but the whole atmosphere has  already put me on edge. I do not think I'm the only one who feels like this. There is a certain stigma with the doctors office that generally puts people on edge. Think about it, the doctors office is always the place that you get the bad news. My father wouldn't even go unless he was about to fall over. I have known many people that react the same way. After my dad passed away, I make it a habit of going regularly. Since his death, I have found myself more nervous when going. I'm always thinking "This is the time when you get the bad news." I know this adds to my paranioa. Am I crazy to think this? Anyway, the older I get, the harder it is to go through the process of getting a checkup. I know it is best to go, but sometimes I think that I am just torturing myself. I'll just wait for the bloodwork to come back and try not to dwell on things I can't change. I guess doctors are there to help, huh?

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My Dog:

My dog's name is Rico. He is a black Labrador. My wife and I got him a couple of months after we got married. I can't believe he is already eight years old. Time flies when your having fun huh. Rico got his name from literally bouncing off the walls like ricochet. He has always been there for me and my wife. Hes a spaz and often gets so excited that he pukes on the floor, but he's my buddy. My son loves him and he does well with kids. It;s amazing how well a dog can be a babysitter at times. Rico just lets my Phoenix crawl all over him and just looks at me like "help", why are you letting him do this to me? I think he likes it though. Rico makes a good horse for a kid. Hes got to be the fastest dog ive ever seen. he only weighs 60 pounds so hes like all muscle. I bet he could win a gold medal in the dog olympics. Is there a dog olympics? Ill have to look into that i guess. Rico is getting older now and it makes me sad to think of when hesd gone. Hes only 8 so maybe he'll live to be like 15. Hes been there through the good and bad and I think of him like a son. He was our first child my wife and I often joke. he also lays in your lap just like a well lapdog. Hes a big baby but ricoo is the best dog ever. I wouldnt trade him for anythhing.

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 believe I am a good father

I believe I can sing

I believe I can play guitar

I believe I am a good husband

I believe I have a good wife

I believe I talk too much on occasion

I believe I am a christian

I believe in miracles

I believe I love my son

I believe that I am a writer

I believe that I am a good father because my son is my world. I play with him in the floor and have more fun than he does. I am just a big kid at heart so parenting is easy for me. It doesn't hurt that my son is like a mini-me and loves everything I used to. We watch old movies I did when I was a kid and get too loud and mom yells at us. I guess it will be harder when he gets older, but I look forward to raising my son. kids don't always like what parents have to say, but I think that I make parenting fun. Yeah, I have to be the bad guy every once in a while, I don't want a monkey swinging from the ceiling fan. Actually, if we could get away with it, I probably would swing with him from the fan. I know what your thinking, responsable parents don't do that. I never said I was totally reponsible all the time. Time, that is he problem isn't it. In no time my son was three. It seems like two months ago he was three months old and I was holding him wondering if I could do this. Well  it's almost four yesrs later and he's still alive. Its a miracle! Having kids really does change yor priorities. Hes my whole life and I cherish ecvery minute with him. I just worry about the day he outgrows me and doesnt want tp play anymore!

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Jung Typology Test Reflection

I took the Jung Typology Test and was interested in the results.  I'm apparently ISFP which describes me as a procrastinator along with being, "flexible, practical, action-oriented, and empathetic."(Jung) The test also concluded that, "I am often light-hearted, joyful, and easy-going."(Jung) Thinking on this I agree with most conclusions, but was surprised with the part that said I did not think about future implications for my actions. As I say this out loud my wife smiles and says, "That does describe you totally!" We banter shortly before I conclude she is correct, like always! It is amusing to me how other people close to you can

sometimes see you better than you see yourself.

I have always been there for people and felt like I was considerate of their feelings. One can never be too old to learn more about themselves. I find it interesting that a test can really encompass everyone in the world, but maybe that is just my ISFP traits talking?

When I scrolled down to the Career section I saw examples of jobs that would be fitting for me. "Reflects their inner values and fulfills a greater purpose, meets a need, or helps others."( Jung) These were represented by several occupations including : physical therapy and massage therapy. It looks like I am heading for the right job field. The Jung test has all kinds of lists pertaining to me and my career decisions and college decisions. Reflecting back on this test will help me in school and in the my occupations in the future.  


https://thepurpleenglishteacher.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/isfp.pdf