08/31/15 – Advice for the Ladies

August 31, 2015August 31, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

CURRENT EVENTS

FOOT RACE

The 18th Annual Ford Arts, Beats & Eats takes place in Downtown Royal Oak. The festival offers more than 200 performances on nine stages, a highly ranked Juried Fine Arts Show, and local restaurants with some of the finest cuisine in Metro-Detroit. In addition, there is also a 5K / 10K race associated with the event that starts Saturday morning, September 5. For more information, please click on the link below:

http://www.artsbeatseats.com/priority-health-5k-10k/

CHARACTER TRAITS

Character traits such as courage, self-worth, optimism, etc. are so much the foundation of being extraordinary, that I devoted 19 chapters in my book to various character traits. These four people, as well as the President of France in the Center of the photo below, are truly extraordinary for the courage they displayed in standing up to terrorism.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE TALKING ABOUT…
These three Americans. On Friday, three Americans — two of them off-duty military service members — took down a heavily armed gunman on a train going from Amsterdam to Paris. The three men and a British passenger tackled the suspect – who was carrying an AK47 and lots of ammo – before he could do anything. The suspect is a 26-year-old Moroccan man. European officials think he may have terror ties. But yesterday, his lawyer said he was just trying to rob people on the train. Which made everything all better. (Source: The SKIMM)

NEW STORE IN ROYAL OAK

Emmy’s Post is a new and extraordinary boutique store in Royal Oak, MI on 6th street between Main and Washington streets. The inside of the store is even more interesting than the picture above depicts. Plus, it also has some cool clothes for girls of all ages at reasonable prices. If you would like to know more about the store, please clink on the link below:

http://www.emmyspost.com/about-us/

SELF-HELP BOOKS:

Several weeks ago I did a running poll and 47% of you said that you have never entered a race, not even a one mile race. I have no way of knowing, but I would guess that a number of you in that 47% are younger than 50.

Anyway, there are so many people past the age of 50, who are still running races. Although this book is obviously for the over 50 market, I think much of the advice is good for people of any age. For instance, the human body improves with use, unlike machines that wear out with use. Surely, you have all heard of the phrase, “Use it or lose it.”

In chapter 2 of my book, I stress the importance of cardiovascular fitness and this book will help you.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

Midnight in Paris is one of the best movies I have ever seen and if you know anything at all about the artists who were in Paris during the 1920s, you will enjoy this film all the more and you may want to visit this magnificent city. Chapter 48 of my book talks about the importance of travel and about purchasing experiences rather things.

This is a romantic comedy set in Paris about a family that goes there because of business, and two young people who are engaged to be married in the fall have experiences there that change their lives. It’s about a young man’s great love for a city, Paris, and the illusion people have that a life different from theirs would be much better. (Source: Rotten Tomatoes)

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK – As I mention in Chapter 24 of my book, people aren’t mind readers, politely ask for what you want, which the quote below that I found on the internet illustrates.

LAST WEEK POLL – How lucky do you feel on a scale of 1 to 10

Here are the results of 23 people who voted:

10 – 3 votes

9 – 1 vote

8 – 7 votes

6 – 6 votes

5 – 2 votes

4, 3 & 2 – 0 votes

1 – 1 vote

The above poll was part of a research study where participants were asked how lucky they were on a scale of one to ten. They were then given a fake newspaper and asked to count the photos inside. Throughout the paper were headlines saying, “the answer is 37, collect $100.” People who believe themselves to be lucky, generally stopped early and collected the extra $100. Others, who considered themselves unlucky, diligently completed the task and eventually came up with the right answer.

The researches believed the results indicated that luck is more about being open to opportunities beyond how the task or situation is presented, than simply good fortune. (Source: Tony Hsieh, NYT Best Selling Author of Delivering Happiness and he is CEO of Zappos.com, Inc.)

THIS WEEK’S POLL – In chapter 49 of my book, I talk about addictions, so here is a poll on addictions.

SONG OF THE WEEK – Check this out, it relates to the poll

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XcATvu5f9vE

THIS WEEK’S JOKE – Chapter 50 of my book relates to Marriage/Life Partners, so I thought you ladies out there would find this bit of information helpful in retaining a great relationship.

Women’s Five Secrets to a Great Relationship:

1. It is important to find a man who works around the
house,occasionally cooks and cleans, and who has a job.

2. It is important to find a man who makes you laugh.

3. It is important to find a man who is dependable and
doesn’t lie.

4. It is important to find a man who’s good in bed and
who loves to have sex with you.

5. It is very important that these four men never meet!!

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE – Alexander the Great

Occupation: Military Commander and King of Ancient Greece
Born: July 20, 356 BC and Died: June 10, 323 BC at the age of 32
Best known for: Conquering much of Asia and Europe

(What is important is the life in your years and not the years in your life.)

Short Biography:

Alexander the Great was the king of Macedonia or Ancient Greece. He is considered one of the greatest military commanders in history. (Note to all: His tactics are still studied, so it is not what you do that is important, but the excellence in which you do it. I’m personally against war, but if you make war–do it well.)

Childhood of Alexander the Great:

Alexander’s father was King Philip the II, who had built up a strong and united empire in Ancient Greece, which Alexander inherited. (Note to children: It is important to chose your parents wisely.)

Like most children in Athens, Alexander as a child, learned mathematics, reading, writing, and how to play the lyre. He also was instructed on how to fight, ride a horse, and hunt. When Alexander turned thirteen, his father Philip II, hired the great philosopher Aristotle. At school Alexander met many of his future generals and friends. He also enjoyed reading the works of Homer, the Iliad and the Odyssey. (Note to Parents: It is important to give you child a good education at a good school, where your child can meet other children of like minded parents).

Alexander’s Conquests

After securing the throne and getting all of Greece under his control, Alexander turned east to conquer more of the civilized world. He moved swiftly using his military genius to win battle after battle conquering many peoples and rapidly expanding the Greek empire.

First he moved through Asia Minor and what is today Turkey. He took over Syria defeating the Persian Army at Issus and then laying siege to Tyre. Next, he conquered Egypt and established Alexandria as the capital. After Egypt came Babylonia and Persia, including the city of Susa. Then he moved through Persia and began to prepare for a campaign in India. At this point Alexander had accumulated one of the largest empires in history. However, his soldiers were ready to revolt. They wanted to return home to see their wives and children. Alexander agreed and his army turned back. (Note to all: Caution, the more you have the more you want, it may be better to simply want what you have.)

Death of Alexander

Alexander only made it back to Babylon where he became suddenly sick and died. No one is sure what he died from, but many suspect poison. Upon his death the great empire he had built was divided up amongst his generals. (Note to all: Nothing lasts)

Source: Much of the above on Alexander is borrowed from http://www.ducksters.com/biography/alexander_the_great.php

BLOG

If you would like to leave a comment to this post, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post, “08/31/15 – Advice for the Ladies”.

And as always, either leave a comment or send me your suggestions for current events, jokes, thoughts, movies, book, extraordinary people, songs, or anything you believe may be interesting and thought provoking for the readers of this blog. My address: mailto:harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

MY BOOK

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/im-tired-of-being-ordinary-are-you-wm-allen/1120528064?ean=9780990388692

08/24/15 – Fantastic Short Film and Insightful Poll

August 23, 2015August 24, 2015 Wm. Allen1 Comment

CURRENT EVENTS

The 18th Annual Ford Arts, Beats & Eats takes place in Downtown Royal Oak. The festival offers more than 200 performances on nine stages, a highly ranked Juried Fine Arts Show, and local restaurants with some of the finest cuisine in Metro-Detroit. Each year international, regional and local attractions at the festival make the City of Royal Oak the premier destination for Labor Day weekend.

In 2014, over 365,000 visitors attended the festival and over $360K was raised for local charities. Festival admission is $3 until 3pm and $5 after 3pm on Saturday, Sunday & Monday. Ford Arts, Beats & Eats is free to enter until 5pm on Friday only. For more information, please click on the link below:

http://www.artsbeatseats.com/

There is also a 5K / 10K race associated with the event that starts Saturday morning, September 5. For more information, please click on the link below:

http://www.artsbeatseats.com/priority-health-5k-10k/

Here is an article I came across this week in USA Today. I suspect with all the money Walter Palmer has to go big game hunting and pay his way out of sexual harassment lawsuits, he is more than just a dentist who worked in this dental practice.

Anyway, the photo below sums up my feelings towards this “big game hunter”.

I understand Walter Palmer is in hiding. I wonder why?

NEW STORE IN ROYAL OAK

Emmy’s Post is a new boutique store in Royal Oak, MI on 6th street between Main and Washington streets. It has some fantastic clothes for girls of all ages at very reasonable prices. If you would like to know more about the store, please clink on the link below:

http://www.emmyspost.com/about-us/

Here is my wife, Carol, checking out this wonderful store.

SELF-HELP BOOKS:

Back in July I did a poll and only two of you said that you bought or read a book that was mentioned in this blog. So, I think I will repeat a book that I believe contains fantastic advice and is probably a book that I have read and reviewed more than any other book. It is written by David Brown, the husband of Helen Gurley Brown. If you don’t know who Helen Gurley Brown is, well.

There is so much good advice in this easy to read, inexpensive book. Of course, if you prefer to remain ordinary; well that is your choice.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK – This week I selected what I think is a fantastic short film (less than six minutes) by Control Alt Delete that is titled “Fin”. It was awarded Best Film at the 2014 Detroit 48 Hour Film Project and was also awarded Best in the categories of Costumes and Writing, plus was an Audience Award Winner. I think after viewing this short film, it will be easy to understand what it did so well.

A relative of mine, Cory Oyama, was on the creative and sound teams that created this wonderful little film–I just really like it and want you to see it.

http://www.48hourfilm.com/films/3603

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK – I feel so strongly about Detachment, that I devoted one chapter of my book to it.

LAST WEEK POLL – Participating in a foot race.

The majority (47%) of you say that you have never entered a race–you have no idea what you are missing.

At least 12% of you have completed a one-mile walk/run–anyone should be able to do that. Majority (47%), are you listening?

An impressive 29% have completed a 5K (3.1 mile) race–well done.

And an amazing 12% of you have done the extraordinary by completing a 26.2 mile race.

THIS WEEK’S POLL – Want to learn something about yourself, than participate in this week’s poll.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE – I understand that so many women want to be appreciate for more than just their looks, so this week’s joke is for those ladies.

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE – Cleopatra

Cleopatra [ ]; (69 – August 12, 30 BC), [ ] was the last active pharaoh of Ptolemaic Egypt, only shortly survived by her son, Caesarion as pharaoh. After her reign, Egypt became a province of the then-recently established Roman Empire.

Cleopatra was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Macedonian Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death. [ ] The Ptolemies, throughout their dynasty, spoke Greek and refused to speak Egyptian.[ ] By contrast, Cleopatra did learn to speak Egyptian and represented herself as the reincarnation of an Egyptian goddess, Isis.

Cleopatra [ ] eventually she became sole ruler. As pharaoh, she consummated a liaison with Julius Caesar that solidified her grip on the throne. She later elevated her son with Caesar, Caesarion, to co-ruler in name.

After Caesar’s assassination in 44 BC, she aligned with Mark Antony in opposition to Caesar’s legal heir, Gaius Julius Caesar Octavianus (later known as Augustus). With Antony, she bore the twins Cleopatra Selene II and Alexander Helios, and another son, Ptolemy Philadelphus [ ]. After losing the Battle of Actium to Octavian’s forces, Antony committed suicide. Cleopatra followed suit, according to tradition killing herself by means of an asp bite on August 12, 30 BC. She was briefly outlived by Caesarion, who was declared pharaoh by his supporters but soon killed on Octavian’s orders. Egypt became the Roman province of Aegyptus.

To this day, Cleopatra remains a popular figure in Western culture. Her legacy survives in numerous works of art and the many dramatizations of her story in literature and other media, including William Shakespeare’s tragedy Antony and Cleopatra, George Bernard Shaw’s play Caesar and Cleopatra, [ ] and the 1963 film Cleopatra. (Source: Wikipedia)

BLOG

And as I mentioned the last week, I now have a box at the bottom of the post where you can type in a reply or comment on something. I’m feeling a bit lonely, without any comments.

And as always, please leave a comment or send me your suggestions for current events, jokes, thoughts, movies, book, extraordinary people or even songs, or anything you believe may be interesting and thought provoking for the readers of this blog. My address: mailto:harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

MY BOOK

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/im-tired-of-being-ordinary-are-you-wm-allen/1120528064?ean=9780990388692

08/17/15 – First Time Ever on the Net (Inside World)

August 16, 2015August 16, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

CURRENT EVENTS

Well, did any of you go to The Woodward Dream Cruise? If so; let us know what you think of it. I can recall cruising Woodward, when I was in high school. The Woodward Dream Cruise is the world’s most popular car cruise and largest one-day automotive event. It is held annually the 3rd Saturday of August on Woodward Avenue and about one million people attend this event each year.

NEW STORE IN ROYAL OAK

http://www.emmyspost.com/about-us/

Here is a friend of mine, Judy, who is also one of the owners of this wonderful store.

SELF-HELP BOOKS:

Cindy Glovinsky in her wonderful book, One Thing at a Time, says “… the best things in life aren’t Things”.

If you want to reduce the clutter in your life, I strongly recommend this book.

I feel reducing clutter in your life is so important, that I devoted an entire chapter of my book to the topic.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK – I made this movie in 2007 and if I had it to do over, it would be different; but here it is for the first time on the internet.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

LAST WEEK POLL – What would you do if you were certain that a good friend was making a serious mistake.

The majority (67%) of those voting this week said they would gently hint to their friend that what their friend planned to do was a bad idea and be there two pick up the pieces. And additional 7% would say nothing, since their friend’s choices are none of their business.

However, 26% said they would strongly say their friend’s idea was a bad one and risk the friendship.

So, which kind of friend do you wish you had?

THIS WEEK’S POLL – I know you can come up with all sorts of reasons, some even legitimate; but if you go to a race you will see all ages and sizes participating.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE – I was going to post a political joke, but was told that the recent Republican debate beat me to it and others warned me that people are sensitive to political jokes and that I should be careful as to not offend anyone. Therefore, I thought I would move to a safer topic for this week’s joke.

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE – THOMAS SOWELL

For as long as I can remember, I have always thought Thomas Sowell was an inspiring individual; but it wasn’t until just the other day I learned that he was a high school drop-out; but that didn’t prevent him from making something of himself, not to mention all the other challenges he must have faced.

Few of us will ever reach the heights of Thomas Sowell, but he is an example that is possible to become all you can be and it is likely most of us face fewer challenges than he faced.

Thomas Sowell (/soʊl/; born June 30, 1930) is an American economist, social theorist, political philosopher, and author.

He is currently Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University. Sowell was born in North Carolina, but grew up in Harlem, New York. He dropped out of high school and served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. He received a Bachelor’s degree, graduating magna cum laude[3] from Harvard University in 1958 and a Master’s degree from Columbia University in 1959. In 1968, he earned his Doctorate in Economics from the University of Chicago.

Sowell has served on the faculties of several universities, including Cornell University and University of California, Los Angeles. He has also worked for think tanks such as the Urban Institute. Since 1980, he has worked at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University. He writes from a conservative and classical liberal perspective, advocating free market economics, and has written more than thirty books. He is a National Humanities Medal recipient. (Source: Wikipedia)

BLOG

This week I added an “About” page to the blog, which tells a little about what I am trying to accomplish with this blog, a couple of pictures and an email address where you can reach me.

And as I mentioned last week, I now have a box at the bottom of the post where you can type in a reply or comment on something.

As always, please send me your jokes, thoughts, movie & book suggestions as well as anything you believe may be interesting and thought provoking for the readers of this blog. My address: harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

MY BOOK

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/im-tired-of-being-ordinary-are-you-wm-allen/1120528064?ean=9780990388692

08/09/15 – Format, Debates, Dream Cruise, Emmy’s Post, Career Warfare, Holmes & Riki + Jokes

August 9, 2015 Wm. Allen2 Comments

MY BLOG

I changed the format this week to add a side bar with an archive of past posts so it will be easier for you to see old posts. And to make it easier to comment on these posts, I now have a box at the bottom of the post where you can type in a reply.

As always, please send me your jokes, thoughts, movie & book suggestions as well as anything you believe may be interesting and thought provoking for the readers of this blog, to this address: harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

CURRENT EVENTS

Regardless of your political orientation, I think the first night of the 2015 Republican Debates was a good way to learn a little about the people, who want to be the leader of the U.S.A.; besides, it was very entertaining. Your chance to see the next round of these debates will be September 16.

Source of above photos: Getty Images

The Woodward Dream Cruise is proud to present the fourth annual Cruise In Shoes™ 5K Fun Run/Walk presented by PNC Bank. The run/walk will take place the morning of August 15, 2015, the same day as the 21st annual Woodward Dream Cruise.

The run/walk will begin at 7:30 am on Yorba Linda Blvd, continue with a rare opportunity to run on historic Woodward Avenue, wind through several Royal Oak neighborhood streets and finish at Shrine High School.

Anyone interested in participating in the Cruise In Shoes™ can register online by going to http://www.cruiseinshoes.com/registration until August 12. Participants can also sign up for the event the day of the run at Royal Oak Shrine High School.

NEW STORE IN ROYAL OAK

There is a new boutique store in Royal Oak, MI on 6th street between Main and Washington streets. It has some fantastic clothes for girls of all ages at very reasonable prices. If you would like to know more about the store, please clink on the link below to see an article in the Royal Oak Review about the store.

http://www.candgnews.com/news/new-boutique-focuses-power-positivity-84690

Here are two of my friends, Tania and Lindsey, who are visiting the store.

SELF-HELP BOOKS:

I just reviewed a book that I read back in 2004 and oh my gosh was it painful to hear all the advice I should have heeded, but didn’t. If you still have hopes of building a career, I recommend you take a look at this book. It has so much good advice and is very readable. Although my corporate career is over; I’m embarking on a new career as an author, speaker and blogger; and this time I’m going to pay closer attention to the advice in this book.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

Since I am a long time fan of Sherlock Holmes, I had to see the recent movie, “Mr. Holmes”. I found the story ok, but not up to the Basil Rathbone and Jeremy Brett productions, but still the acting was amazing.

And this story didn’t do much for me; but Meryl Streep was absolutely amazing.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

LAST WEEK POLL

Only 12 people voted in last week’s poll. Four of you thought about writing a book and another four of your started writing a book, but never finished. So 2/3s of us wanted to write a book but didn’t.

Of the remaining four, 1 never wanted to write a book, two wrote and published a book; but the book did not sell over 100 copies. And congratulations to the one of us who wrote, published and sold more than 100 copies of their book. Well done. My understanding is that 93% of all books published, sell less than 100 copies so this is an extraordinary accomplishment.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

If you work for an organization where it is difficult for you to take a day off from work because you don’t feel well; perhaps, this joke will cheer you up.

And if you think you have a bad job; well look below and perhaps you will reconsider.

MY BOOK

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/im-tired-of-being-ordinary-are-you-wm-allen/1120528064?ean=9780990388692

08/03/15 – Cecil, 20 Minutes to Health, Thinking About Writing a Book, Validation, Advice for Husbands & Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road

August 2, 2015August 3, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

MY BOOK & BLOG

A big thank you to Detroit’s Premier Auditor, John Quaine, for his very kind review of my book and me on Amazon. Thank you very much John.

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/im-tired-of-being-ordinary-are-you-wm-allen/1120528064?ean=9780990388692

I’m also pleased to announce that for last week’s posting, I had 88 views. To all of you, thank you very much for checking out my blog and as always; please send me your jokes, thoughts, movie & book suggestions.

CURRENT EVENTS

By now you have all heard of the cowardly act of the Minnesota dentist, Walter James Palmer of Eden Prairie, MN; who murdered Cecil by luring Cecil out of the Hwange National Park to an unprotected area by strapping a dead animal to their vehicle. Once off national park land, a light was shined on Cecil and he was shot with an arrow. Wounded Cecil was tracked for 40 hours and then shot, beheaded and skinned.

Here is what Arnold Schwarzenegger had to say: Stop killing big cats. Killing a lion isn’t ballsy. Going into the octagon or joining the military – that’s ballsy. Try that before you kill a lion. Protecting big cats is also ballsy.

The Highlander Games were held this weekend in Livonia and it is a great place to watch some tests of strength as well as Celtic music, dancing & beer. Below is a clip of an event called, The Farmers Walk, where you hold 200 lbs. in each hand and see how far you can walk.

And today through August 9, if you want to see terrific modern versions of two of Shakespeare’s plays, check out:

http://shakespeareroyaloak.com/

SELF-HELP BOOKS IN ADDITION TO MY OWN

This week I finished reading The First 20 Minutes” by Gretchen Reynolds. I had to skim a little here and there; but overall the book delivered the latest findings regarding exercise.

Life expectancy in the U.S. and in Europe is expected to drop because too many of us smoke, eat too much and exercise too little. For instance, the book recommends you should walk or work out lightly for 150 minutes a week, and that most of the benefits come in the first 20 minutes of exercise. Are you willing to invest 20 or so minutes a day into staying healthy?

Over the years, I have heard many people talk about wanting to write; well in this time of limited attention spans, I think this book can help you. I must admit I did a lot of skimming this week to finish this book, but I think you can find some helpful tips in the book for writing in today’s world.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

I really hoped you took at least a quick glance at last week’s recommend film, called, “Validation“. I think if you just watch the first 20 seconds, you will want to watch the entire 16 minutes. Just click on on the link below to view last week’s film.

http://crackyouregg.com/heartfelt-video/

My friend Mary Ellen sent me a link to this video. It is great advice for husbands as well as an extremely funny four minutes.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyduncFpzl4

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

LAST WEEK POLL

Of the 25 votes (you could vote more than once), the poll is the most popular feature of this blog. I’ve had a number of you that tell me you like to see how your choices compare to those of others.

Five of you indicated that you have passed on jokes that you first saw on this blog. Thank you, I try to find funny stuff that also sometimes has a moral.

Three of you indicated you have commented on a posting. I’ve had so many people mention they don’t know how to comment. If you want to leave a comment, all you have to do is click on the last line of the weekly post, where it says, “Leave a comment”. There isn’t anything more to it; if you are still having trouble; drop me an email at: mailto:harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

Two of you mentioned that you bought or read a book recommended on this blog. I hope the books were everything you expected. Most of the books I suggest are very easy reads and if not, I say so.

Only one of you indicated you watched a movie because it was recommended on this blog (I assume that doesn’t include the short videos). I hope that is because you have already watched these terrific movies, if not; you may want to rethink that via Netflix or Amazon streaming.

Also, only one of you have indicated that you have passed my blog on to someone else. If you enjoy this blog, I wish you would tell others. And if you don’t like it that much, please tell me what I can do to make it better.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

Folks, in answer to the age old question of why did the chicken cross the road, I offer the following:

07/27/15 – Sad News, Attila the Hun, Validation, Steve Jobs, Religion & Barnes & Nobles

July 27, 2015July 27, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

SAD NEWS: Christy Arboscello

It is always sad to report a death and especially when the person is so young herself and leaving behind two very young children and her husband, Angelo.

Some of you who attended my summer happy hour parties may remember Christy and her young son Dorian.

If you are interesting in knowing more about the life of this extraordinary young woman, please click on the link below.

http://www.freep.com/story/news/obituary/2015/07/20/ex-free-press-reporter-christy-arboscello-dies/30443639/

SELF-HELP BOOKS IN ADDITION TO MY OWN

I just finished reviewing my recommended book for this week, “Victory Secrets of Attila the Hun” by Wess Roberts, Ph.D. and it is every bit the meaningful and easy to read book that it was in 2007, when I first read the book.

Although it was written in 1993, the advice it gives out stands up to the test of time in this very easy to read book.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

This week’s movie is an extraordinary film that was recommended to me by Judith, an extraordinary woman herself. The film is called, “Validation” and it is 16 minutes long.

I am just asking that you watch just 20 seconds of the film and let me know if you are able to stop watching it. I honestly believe this film is a good investment of 16 minutes of your life.

To view the film, just click on the link below.

http://crackyouregg.com/heartfelt-video/

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

LAST WEEK POLL

The vast majority of you like the new format better than when I stuck to a single trait so I will continue trying to keep the blog current and covering a number of traits that I hope will be helpful to you as well as to me.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

Folks, I have been cautioned to be careful of making political jokes because they can unintentionally start arguments. Therefore, I thought I would switch to a safer topic.

CONCLUSION

Although I mention many times that my book is available on Amazon, I should let you know that my book is also available on the Barnes & Nobles website. Just click on:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/im-tired-of-being-ordinary-are-you-wm-allen/1120528064?ean=9780990388692

For those of you that have supported me by purchasing a copy of my book, please do me another favor and let others know what you thought of it at Amazon. Currently, I have over 100 copies of my book floating around out there somewhere and I have five reviews–any chance of making it six reviews?

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

Thanks to a very nice lady, Annette Foster, my Facebook page Harmony Books & Films, LLC now has 52 likes. Any chance we could make it 53 Facebook page likes this week?

I think comments make this blog so much more interesting and helpful, so why not start a conversation? All you have to do to leave a comment is to click on the last line of the weekly post, where it says, “Leave a comment”.

And finally, please send me any of your suggestions for books, films, quotes, jokes, polls or anything else you think will make this blog more interesting and helpful to people. Thank you.

07/20/15 – Change, Emmy’s Post, Detroit Free Press, Iran, Caesars, Terminator, Drug Lord, the Skimm, Poll, a Bear & a Short Video

July 19, 2015 Wm. Allen2 Comments

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

THIS WEEK’S THEME:

I’m changing my weekly post by including more current events, in hopes they will be more interesting to you.

Also, I am asking you to submit quotes, movies, self-help books, short film clips you took yourself, current news items or anything else you come across that is entertaining and better yet if it can help a person improve themselves. You can let me know via comments or send to:

mailto:harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

NEW STORE IN ROYAL OAK

I’m delighted to announce that a new teen boutique is now in Royal Oak on 210 W. Sixth Street, called Emmy’s Post. I just love the store’s philosophy. Judy Lewis, one of the store’s owners said, “It has to be positive, and it has to be outward focused. It can’t just be about making money. It has to be about helping people.” I really hope if you are around Royal Oak, you will stop in at this store. It is really a cool store. If you told them that you heard about the store from Bill, that would be nice; but not necessary 🙂

INSPIRING NEWSPAPER ARTICLE

If you don’t believe the American Dream still exists, you may want to read this inspiring Detroit Free Press article by Susan Selasky about the National Coney Island restaurants, celebrating 50 years.

http://www.freep.com/story/life/food/2015/07/16/national-coney-island-fiftieth/30132533/

IRAN

I was in the U.S. Army, I lived in Iranian hotels and apartments for well over a year.

The vast majority of Iranians I met were very nice to me and some went out of their way to help me get along in this very different world. Of course, I was there during the time of the Shah, so our two countries were not at odds with one another. It was just people relating to people.

I tend to think that maybe it is the governments and the media that gets people to hate one another. For instance, I believe the average Russian would be reasonably friendly with any Americans they encountered; and wouldn’t most of you be helpful to a Russian tourtist trying to find his way in our city.

I believe the more diversity we have in our lives, the more sensitive we will be to the needs and concerns of people different from ourselves. I suspect diversity is a pathway to peace both inside and outside our borders.

SELF-HELP BOOKS IN ADDITION TO MY OWN

Surprise, I don’t always read self-help books, but any reasonably well written book can enhance your perspective. I just finishing reading The Twelve Caesars by Matthew Dennison. I’m not suggesting you read this book, but I am suggesting you read a book if you are serious about improving yourself.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

I saw Terminator Genisys in 3D. Sure, Arnold is older than when he made the first Terminator movie back in 1984; but as he says many times throughout the movie about himself, “Old, but not obsolete”.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK (Obtained from the Skimm)

If you want to be extraordinary, you cannot constantly play it safe. As for advice, I would be less concerned about the quality of the advice giver and more concerned about the quality of the advice.

“In this life, he who risks nothing cannot win”

Source:The son of El Chapo — aka the escaped Mexican drug lord — getting philosophical about his dad’s prison break.

Quote from: http://www.theskimm.com/

The Skimm is a very cool website that gives you the latest news updates Monday through Friday and is very brief. Check it out and see if you don’t like it as much as I do.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

I found this on the internet and I think it was intended as a joke. But I thought about it and decided that this was a very wise bear because this bear focuses on the similarities among people; rather than their differences.

SHORT VIDEO – THE DEADLIFT

CONCLUSION

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

Also, if you enjoy this blog, why not pass it on to your friends as well as consider liking my Facebook page Harmony Books & Films, LLC. So far, 51 of you have been kind enough to like my Facebook page.

03/02/15 Live Long and Prosper

March 1, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

By now, you as well as every one else, in all the various universes have heard of the death of Spock (Here on Earth, sometimes referred to as Leonard Nimoy). Spock was without doubt one of the most extraordinary persons to have ever existed.

Rather than say anything about Spock myself, I will let another extraordinary individual sum up what Spock was about:

Star Trek actor George Takei (Better known as Mr. Sulu, Helmsman on the Starship Enterprise, who I was fortunate to meet back on May 20, 1965), said to CNN:

“Leonard was a very dear friend. One extraordinary thing about him I remember: When Star Trek was going to be done as an animated series, they cast Leonard, Bill Shatner, Majel Barrett and Jimmy Doohan only for the voice acting on that. And when he discovered that Nichelle Nichols and Walter Koenig and I were not cast because of budgetary considerations, he said, Star Trek is about diversity, and if the two people that represent diversity to most, Nichelle and George, then I’m not interested in doing it. … That was an extraordinary thing for an actor, to give up a gig on behalf of other actors. And because Leonard was so necessary to the project, they cast Nichelle and me and offered Walter an opportunity to write a script. He was really an amazing man.”

It has been 20 years since I first acquired I Am Spock by Leonard Nimoy on cassette tapes and I listened to it again in 2006 and finished listening to it again today. It is a 4-hour journey into the life of Leonard Nimoy and Spock. I thought listening to Leonard Nimoy read the book, I Am Spock was a great way to honor these two extraordinary individuals. If you read the book or listen to the tapes, you will know why I refer to them in the plural.

http://www.amazon.com/I-Am-Spock-Leonard-Nimoy/dp/0786861827/

RESULTS OF LAST WEEK’S POLL ON EXERCISING

I think it is wonderful that 75% of you engage in some type of exercise, but on the other hand I am worried to think that 25% of you don’t really exercise. I wish I knew how to convince you that just a small investment in your health would add years to your life and life to your years.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

Question:

How many Vulcans does it take to screw in a light bulb?

Answer:

Approximately 1.00000000000000000000000000000000

THIS WEEK’S POLL

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

A life is like a garden.

Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved,

except in memory.

Source: Leonard Nimoy’s Final Tweet

BRIEF COMMENTS RELATED TO THE WEEKLY CHAPTERS IN:

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

WEEK 51: DEATH – CONSIDER DEATH EVERY DAY SO THAT YOU CAN MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY DAY

Start the day mindful that this could be your last day and act accordingly.

Also be mindful that today could be the last day of someone you come in contact with so again act accordingly.

SELF-HELP BOOKS IN ADDITION TO MY OWN

You will find for the moment, my book is listed as out of print on Amazon. That is because I am in the process of turning it into an ebook. I hope to have my book as well as the ebook available soon. I have copies of the book, if you would like to purchase one and don’t want to wait until it again becomes available on Amazon.

I was in the University of Chicago’s Book Store back in 1994, when the book below caught my eye. It is a 128 page easy read, but contains so many insights that I believe will be beneficial to you in your quest to become extraordinary. I have read and reviewed it so many times over the years. Those of you who know me, may wonder if the book is so good, why am I like I am. I think Oscar Wilde can explain, when he said, “I always pass on good advice. It is the only thing to do with it. It is never of any use to oneself.”

http://www.amazon.com/Marinaccio-Learned-Watching-Reprint-Paperback/dp/B00RWRKCE8/

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

There are many who think Star Trek II The Wrath of Khan was the best of the Star Trek movies. And if you are old enough to like fine “corinthian leather“, this movie stars Ricardo Montalban.

http://www.amazon.com/Star-Trek-II-Wrath-Khan/dp/B000I3SYEI/

CONCLUSION

Each week I keep trying to make this blog better in hopes that you will like it enough to pass it on your friends. Also, if you like this blog, please show you do by liking my Facebook page Harmony Books & Films, LLC. And for those of you who have read my book, it you would care to comment about the book on Amazon that would be most welcomed.

http://www.amazon.com/Tired-Being-Ordinary-Are-You/dp/0990388697

Also, I continue donating to anyone putting on a charitable fundraiser two copies of my book to auction off or raffle as a door prize. So if you know anyone that is holding a charitable fundraiser and could use a couple copies of my book please tell them about me. I can be reached at:

harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

Harmony Books & Films, LLC

Tired of being ordinary, then here are some tips for becoming extraordinary.

Category: Uncategorized

08/31/15 – Advice for the Ladies

08/24/15 – Fantastic Short Film and Insightful Poll

08/17/15 – First Time Ever on the Net (Inside World)

08/09/15 – Format, Debates, Dream Cruise, Emmy’s Post, Career Warfare, Holmes & Riki + Jokes

08/03/15 – Cecil, 20 Minutes to Health, Thinking About Writing a Book, Validation, Advice for Husbands & Why Did the Chicken Cross the Road

07/27/15 – Sad News, Attila the Hun, Validation, Steve Jobs, Religion & Barnes & Nobles

07/20/15 – Change, Emmy’s Post, Detroit Free Press, Iran, Caesars, Terminator, Drug Lord, the Skimm, Poll, a Bear & a Short Video

03/02/15 Live Long and Prosper

WEEK 51: DEATH – CONSIDER DEATH EVERY DAY SO THAT YOU CAN MAKE THE MOST OF EVERY DAY