CURRENT EVENTS (RECIENTES ACONTECIMIENTOS)

“If you don’t read the newspaper, you’re uninformed.

If you read the newspaper, you’re mis-informed.”

Source:  Mark Twain

PHYSICAL TRAITS (RASGOS FÍSICOS)

Honor Thy Temple

Here is an excellent exercise for those of us over 60.

CHARACTER TRAITS (RASGOS DE CARÁCTER)

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

If you wish to be extraordinary, don’t be jealous of anyone.

SOCIAL TRAITS (RASGOS SOCIALES)

Getting Along with Others

Be extraordinary by helping your friends without them having to ask.

With a Little Help From My Friends

by The Beatles

LEARNING TRAITS

(CARACTERÍSTICAS DE APRENDIZAJE)

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

Halifax Citadel

Travel and seeing things you have never seen before is a bit like seeing things as a child, because it is all new to you.  Last Saturday, I was at the Halifax Citadel.  

My pictures do not begin to depict what a military fortification the Citadel was in its day.  The British was so proud of it that they even gave tours of the Citadel, while it was actively being used as a fort.

The Citadel was never attacked, since it was obvious that doing so would be a lost cause.  I guess it was an 1850s version of “Peace Through Strength”.

   

The present Citadel, completed in 1856, is officially called Fort George, named after Britain’s King George II, and is actually the fourth in a series of forts to sit atop what is now known as Citadel Hill.

Its distinctive star shape is typical of many 19th century forts built by the British military and gave the garrison sweeping arcs of fire. From its deep defensive ditch, soldiers pointed muskets from every angle of its stout walls and large cannons lined its ramparts.

It’s easy to see why no enemy force ever dared to attack the Halifax Citadel. (Source: http://www.novascotia.com)

MISCELLANEOUS (VARIADO)

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

BOOK OF THE WEEK (LIBRO DE LA SEMANA)

Yes, this book is for runners; but I think you can find much here that would apply to many of your endeavors.

Runner’s World

The Runner’s Brain 

by Dr. Jeff Brown with Liz Neporent

As a runner, your biggest asset (or sometimes your greatest enemy) is your brain. What you think and feel on and off the road also has a huge influence over how you perform once you lace up. (Source: Amazon)

What Every Michigan Bicyclist Must Know

I found this to be an extremely helpful pamphlet for anyone riding a bicycle in Michigan.  Hopefully, the area where you live will have a bicycle organization that makes available a similar type pamphlet.

This handy booklet is designed for bicyclists and is an excellent resource for anyone riding a bicycle in Michigan. (Source: League of Michigan Bicyclists)

MOVIES OF THE WEEK (PELÍCULAS DE LA SEMANA)

I enjoyed this film with Johnny Depp and Angelina Jolie, maybe you will too; if you haven’t already seen it.  It came out some time ago.

The Tourist

MUSIC OF THE WEEK (MÚSICA DE LA SEMANA)

One of my favorite country music singer and I was lucky enough to see her once.

Suds In The Bucket

By Sarah Evans

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Threat

What do you consider the greatest threat to the world?

50% – Islamic Extremists

35% – Global Warming

10% – Other

 5% – North Korea

 0% – Poor Economy

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Travel to Europe

ART OF THE WEEK (ARTE DE LA SEMANA)

Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick Canada

When it  comes to outstanding sculptors; it is hard to do better than Mother Nature.  

Carol and I walked through the opening in this rock yesterday, but we couldn’t stay there long.

When the tides come in, almost that entire opening is covered.  The Fundy Tides are the highest in the world and can rise and fall an astounding 50 feet.

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

(PERSONA EXTRAORDINARIA DE LA SEMANA)

Crispus Attucks

Crispus Attucks (c.1723—March 5, 1770) was the first person killed in the Boston massacre, and is widely considered to be the first American casualty in the American Revolutionary War. Aside from the event of his death, little is known for certain about Attucks.

He was probably a Native American slave or freeman, merchant seaman and dockworker of Wampanoag and African descent. Circumstantial evidence suggests his father may have been Prince Yonger, an African-born slave and his mother, Nanny Peterattucks, a Natick Native American.

Historians disagree on whether Crispus Attucks was a free man or an escaped slave, but most agree that he was of Wampanoag and African descent. (Source: Wikipedia)

THIS WEEK’S JOKE (BROMA DE LA SEMANA)

¡Cats!

TALK TO ME (HÁBLAME)

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Carol, Coach Jo, Christy, Georgia, Samantha & Rene, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Albert, Annette, Carol, Cindi, Cynthia, Dave, Dawn, Donna, Jane, Jean, Jennifer, Kelsey, Margie, Michelle, Natalia, Ray, Rolga, Sandra, Scot, Sibyl, Virginia & Willie, for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Dan, Darque, Part Time Traveller, Pooja, Rhonda, Shehannemoore, Tajwar & Urban Mile, who started following my blog and my thanks to  Katie, Kenny, Laura & Martha, for liking  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK (LIBRO)

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS (RECIENTES ACONTECIMIENTOS)

Now London is the victim of an Islamic Terrorist attack.

 

PHYSICAL TRAITS (RASGOS FÍSICOS)

Honor Thy Temple

When it comes to your health goals, please keep this in mind.

CHARACTER TRAITS (RASGOS DE CARÁCTER)

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

If you wish to be extraordinary, it is important to keep your promises.  And  remember what Napoleon said, “The best way to keep a promise is to not make one.”

SOCIAL TRAITS (RASGOS SOCIALES)

Getting Along with Others

LEARNING TRAITS

(CARACTERÍSTICAS DE APRENDIZAJE)

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

I think learning another language is very important.  Spanish, I believe is the second most spoken language in the world, so I thought I should encourage your knowledge of this language with a word for the day.

MISCELLANEOUS (VARIADO)

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

BOOK OF THE WEEK (LIBRO DE LA SEMANA)

I know most of you aren’t into powerlifting, but there are also a lot of good health and life tips in Ernie’s book.

Ernie Frantz’s Ten Commandments 

of Powerlifting

by Ernie Frantz

 

And here is a photo of Ernie signing a copy of his book for me.

MOVIES OF THE WEEK (PELÍCULAS DE LA SEMANA)

Jesus Christ Superstar

I recently saw this play again and enjoyed it even more.  I realize that most of you don’t live in the Royal Oak, MI, USA area where I live, but I am guessing that you probably don’t live that far from live theater.  If you haven’t already done so, you should check out the plays happening in your area.

MUSIC OF THE WEEK (MÚSICA DE LA SEMANA)

It is easy for me to be stuck in the 50s; here is a song my younger friend Samantha posted on her blog last week.

Pack Up

By Eliza Doolittle

Wonder why I’m stuck in the 50s, well just take a quick look

Long Tall Sally

By Little Richard

I was fortunate to see Little Richard twice, once when we were both very young and again when we were both very old.

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Health

In terms of your health, how do you feel about the average person 15 years younger than you?

43% – I’m as healthy

33% – I’m healthier

24% – I’m not as healthy

How do you believe financially you compared on average to those 15 years younger than yourself? 

80% – I’m better off financially

20% – I’m the same

0%  – I’m worse off financially

Well, these two polls says a lot about the younger generation.

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Threat

ART OF THE WEEK (ARTE DE LA SEMANA)

Art

Over the years I have shown you what I thought was some very impressive art, but this is the most impressive art I have ever come across.  He is the founder and coach of one of the best powerlifting teams, “Armageddon” in the world and he has coached many world champions, as well as being a world champion himself.  

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

(PERSONA EXTRAORDINARIA DE LA SEMANA)

Isabella I

Isabella I (22 April 1451 – 26 November 1504) was Queen of Castile. She was married to Ferdinand II of Aragon. Their marriage became the basis for the political unification of Spain under their grandson, Holy Roman Emperor Charles V.

After a struggle to claim her right to the throne, she reorganized the governmental system, brought the crime rate to the lowest it had been in years, and unburdened the kingdom of the enormous debt her brother had left behind. Her reforms and those she made with her husband had an influence that extended well beyond the borders of their united kingdoms.

Isabella and Ferdinand are known for completing the Reconquista, ordering conversion or exile of their Muslim and Jewish subjects in the Spanish Inquisition, and for supporting and financing Christopher Columbus’ 1492 voyage that led to the opening of the New World and to the establishment of Spain as the first global power which dominated Europe and much of the world for more than a century.

Isabella was granted the title Servant of God by the Catholic Church in 1974. (Source: Wikipedia)

THIS WEEK’S JOKE (BROMA DE LA SEMANA)

Your Uber driver has arrived

TALK TO ME (HÁBLAME)

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Carolyn, Chris, Christy, Darlene, Dave, Georgia, Samantha & Rene, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Cindi, Cynthia Josie, Martha & Willie, for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Carolyn, D. Wallace, James, Shraddha & Supposed to be Forever, who started following my blog and my thanks to  everyone who has liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK (LIBRO)

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS (RECIENTES ACONTECIMIENTOS)

I can’t speak for other countries, but in the USA there has just been too much talk of fear, fear and more fear.  This great country has been founded by people who were brave and is maintained by people who are brave, such as our military, police, first responders and just ordinary people who face all kinds of challenges everyday.  America, land of the free and home of the brave, let’s keep it that way and stamp out fear in all its many forms.

PHYSICAL TRAITS (RASGOS FÍSICOS)

Honor Thy Temple

It is important to make good clothing choices

In case any of you are wondering how I did at last week’s AAPF National Contest, I won my age/weight/type of lift and set a National Record.  

Here I am accepting my award from the Godfather of Powerlifting and the founder of the World Powerlifting Congress Ernie Frantz.

CHARACTER TRAITS (RASGOS DE CARÁCTER

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

No one accomplishes anything without help along the way and there have been so many people who have helped me and many still are helping me.  It is important to express some gratitude to these people.  Although I have been lifting weights since I was 15, Walter was the one that got be started in powerlifting contests.  I am never at a contest that I don’t miss him.

SOCIAL TRAITS (RASGOS SOCIALES)

Getting Along with Others

Here is an interesting picture taken by Carol Allen yesterday.  Do you have any idea what these four people have in common?

Well, they have all set world powerlifting records and one of them did so again yesterday.  Oh, it wasn’t me, but I did set an AAPF National record yesterday.

LEARNING TRAITS

(CARACTERÍSTICAS DE APRENDIZAJE)

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

This is worth learning

MISCELLANEOUS (VARIADO)

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

BOOK OF THE WEEK (LIBRO DE LA SEMANA)

I know I have mentioned this book before, but this week it seemed especially appropriate to remind people that as you grow older, with some luck and a lot of hard work, you can keep your strength.

Powerlifting Over 50

by Richard Schuller

 

MOVIES OF THE WEEK (PELÍCULAS DE LA SEMANA)

How to Be a Latin Lover

This movie is sort of silly, but has some nice messages here and there, such as; “You don’t get what you wish for, you get what you work for.”

Baywatch

There is a lot of very off-color humor (that may be an understatement) in this film, but The Rock is in it so I had to watch.

MUSIC OF THE WEEK (MÚSICA DE LA SEMANA)

Born in the USA

By Bruce Springsteen

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Intelligent Life

Do you believe there is intelligent life in other areas of the cosmos, besides Earth?

74% – Yes

16% – Maybe

10% – No

Other than yourself, do you believe there is intelligent life on Earth?

78% – Yes

22% – Some but not much

0%  – No

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Health

In addition to savings, I hope you are also investing in your health; so that you will be both financially and physically independent.  

ART OF THE WEEK (ARTE DE LA SEMANA)

Vietnam War Memorial

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

(PERSONA EXTRAORDINARIA DE LA SEMANA)

Ernie Frantz

I could say a thousand words about why I think Ernie is extraordinary, but instead I will just show you a video.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE (BROMA DE LA SEMANA)

Like most things, the key is to just start.

TALK TO ME (HÁBLAME)

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Georgia, Lynn, Samantha, Sue & Tania, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Bob, Cynthia Darlene, Martha,  Nandini, Sheryll, Shirley, Susan & Willie, for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Just Me, Nikesh, Shaniamatanji & Wisdom, who started following my blog and my thanks to  Carol, Kelsey & Rita, who liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK (LIBRO)

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS (RECIENTES ACONTECIMIENTOS)

I’ll be there this weekend tying to be the AAPF USA Champion

for my age/weight/type of lift

2017 AAPF Nationals – May 26-28, 2017

PHYSICAL TRAITS (RASGOS FÍSICOS)

Honor Thy Temple

Add if you can’t jog, at least start walking and stop parking your car as close to the store entrance as possible.

CHARACTER TRAITS (RASGOS DE CARÁCTER

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

SOCIAL TRAITS (RASGOS SOCIALES)

Getting Along with Others

Until the sun comes out again for you,

my umbrella is big enough for two.

Is your umbrella big enough for two?

LEARNING TRAITS

(CARACTERÍSTICAS DE APRENDIZAJE)

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

MISCELLANEOUS (VARIADO)

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

BOOK OF THE WEEK (LIBRO DE LA SEMANA)

I just finished reading this book again and found it fun to read and has a lot of good advice.

I hope you check out this book.

The Rest of Your Life is The Best of Your Life

by David Brown

 

By the way, David Brown was the husband of the famous Helen Gurley Brown of Cosmopolitan fame.

MOVIES OF THE WEEK (PELÍCULAS DE LA SEMANA)

Humans

You may not want to watch this if you don’t have an open mind regarding the place of humans in the cosmos. 

Humans (stylised as HUM∀NS) is a science fiction television series that debuted on 14 June 2015 on. Written by the British team Sam Vincent and Jonathan Brackley, based on the award-winning Swedish science fiction drama Real Humans, the series explores the themes of artificial intelligence and robotics, focusing on the social, cultural, and psychological impact of the invention of anthropomorphic robots called “synths”. (Source Wikipedia)

MUSIC OF THE WEEK (MÚSICA DE LA SEMANA)

I think Pachelbel’s Cannon was the greatest music ever written.  You may not want to spend the 6 minutes and 18 seconds listening to it, but if you do it will transport you to heaven.

Cannon

By Pachelbel

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Friends

Do you support the efforts of your friends? 

73% – Yes

27% – No

How do you support the efforts of your friends?

40% – Encouragement

30% – Show up for events

18%  – Donations or purchases

12% – Other ways

Are you sometimes jealous of the successes and purchases of your friends?

59% – Never

35% – Sometimes

6% – Yes

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Intelligent Life

ART OF THE WEEK (ARTE DE LA SEMANA)

Stonehenge

Photo by Wm. Allen

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England. It consists of a ring of standing stones, with each standing stone around 13 ft. high, 6 ft. 11 in. wide and weighing around 25 tons. The stones are set within earthworks in the middle of the most dense complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in England, including several hundred burial mounds.

Archaeologists believe it was constructed from 3000 BC to 2000 BC. The surrounding circular earth bank and ditch, which constitute the earliest phase of the monument, have been dated to about 3100 BC. Radiocarbon dating suggests that the first bluestones were raised between 2400 and 2200 BC, although they may have been at the site as early as 3000 BC.

One of the most famous landmarks in the UK, Stonehenge is regarded as a British cultural icon. Stonehenge is owned by the Crown and managed by English Heritage; the surrounding land is owned by the National Trust.

Stonehenge could have been a burial ground from its earliest beginnings. Deposits containing human bone date from as early as 3000 BC, when the ditch and bank were first dug, and continued for at least another five hundred years. (Source: Wikipedia)

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

(PERSONA EXTRAORDINARIA DE LA SEMANA)

Helen Gurley Brown

Helen Gurley Brown (February 18, 1922 – August 13, 2012) was an American author, publisher, and businesswoman. She was the editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan magazine for 32 years.

At the age of 90, Brown died at the McKeen Pavilion at New York–Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia after a brief hospitalization.

Hearst Publications said, “Helen was one of the world’s most recognized magazine editors and book authors, and a true pioneer for women in journalism – and beyond.”

Entertainment Weekly said that “Gurley Brown will be remembered for her impact on the publishing industry, her contributions to the culture at large, and sly quips like her famous line: ‘Good girls go to heaven. Bad girls go everywhere.'”

Then-New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg in a statement said, “Today New York City lost a pioneer who reshaped not only the entire media industry, but the nation’s culture. She was a role model for the millions of women whose private thoughts, wonders and dreams she addressed so brilliantly in print.”

Brown, and her husband David, who died in 2010, were buried in late November 2012 in adjacent graves at Sisco Cemetery, her maternal family cemetery, in Carroll County, Arkansas. (Source: Wikipedia)

THIS WEEK’S JOKE (BROMA DE LA SEMANA)

TALK TO ME (HÁBLAME)

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Darlene & Georgia, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Carol, Darlene, Debra & Jeffery, for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Ogden & Rhapsody Boheme & The Godly Chic Diaries, who started following my blog and my thanks to  Eva, Mary Ann & Yvonne, who liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK (LIBRO)

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS (RECIENTES ACONTECIMIENTOS)

My insurance company has added bicycle service to its roadside assistance program at no extra cost.  This was certainly news to me and perhaps your roadside assistance company may be doing the same for you.

PHYSICAL TRAITS (RASGOS FÍSICOS)

Honor Thy Temple

I sometimes wonder if the people who design or approve voice response units ever have to make use of them.

CHARACTER TRAITS (RASGOS DE CARÁCTER

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

When you keep things in your space that don’t work [or are broken], 

you are encouraging your life to reflect that brokenness .

Source: Loren Slocum

Of course there is an exception to every rule, such as the statue of Venus de Milo.

SOCIAL TRAITS (RASGOS SOCIALES)

Getting Along with Others

We tend to receive from the world what we send out.

LEARNING TRAITS

(CARACTERÍSTICAS DE APRENDIZAJE)

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

MISCELLANEOUS (VARIADO)

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

Life is like riding a bicycle.

To keep your balance you must keep moving.

Source: Albert Einstein

BOOK OF THE WEEK (LIBRO DE LA SEMANA)

I found this book fun to read and full of good advice that you usually don’t hear.

Just Ride

by Grant Petersen

 

“A wonderfully sane, down-to-earth, and frequently funny guide to riding, maintaining, fixing and enjoying your bicycle.” (Source: Dave Eggers, New York Times Book Review)

MOVIES OF THE WEEK (PELÍCULAS DE LA SEMANA)

The White Princess

If you watched The White Queen, you are probably already watching The White Princess.  I think you will enjoy both series.

The White Princess is a British-American historical fiction television series for Starz, based on Philippa Gregory’s 2013 novel of the same name. It is a sequel to The White Queen, a 2013 BBC-produced miniseries adapting three of Gregory’s previous novels.

In the eight episode series, the marriage of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York effectively ends the Wars of the Roses by uniting houses of Lancaster and York. However, their mutual enmity and distrust—as well as the political plots of their mothers—threaten to tear both the marriage and the kingdom apart. (Source: Wikipedia)

MUSIC OF THE WEEK (MÚSICA DE LA SEMANA)

When it comes to royalty, there are many kings and even emperors,

but there is only one Duke of Earl.

The Duke of Earl

By Gene Chandler

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Mother’s Day

Do you celebrate Mother’s Day? 

79% – Yes

21% – No

If you do celebrate Mother’s Day, you celebrate your

53% – Mother

41% – Other

6%  – Mother-in-Law

If you celebrate Mother’s Day how do you do it?

30% – Ways other than those mentioned in this poll

25% – Gift

13% – Restaurant

13% – Flowers

13% – Card

 6% – Party

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Friends

ART OF THE WEEK (ARTE DE LA SEMANA)

Ancient Statute

The photo above is of an ancient statue.

Behind the ancient statue is Venus de Milo

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

(PERSONA EXTRAORDINARIA DE LA SEMANA)

You

THIS WEEK’S JOKE (BROMA DE LA SEMANA)

TALK TO ME (HÁBLAME)

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Georgia & Spiritual Journey, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Anna, Annette, Athena, Cassandra, Cindi, Cynthia, Darlene, Donna, Giuliana, Jeanne, Kimberly, Paula, Priti, Renee, Sherry, Susan, The Om Project & Willie, for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Grace, Flow Art Station & Victoria, who started following my blog and my thanks to  Eva & Yvonne, who liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK (LIBRO)

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS (RECIENTES ACONTECIMIENTOS)

In recognition of Mother’s Day, I dedicate this one to all you moms out there.

Mother’s Day May 14

Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring the mother of the family, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. It is celebrated on various days in many parts of the world, most commonly in the months of March or May. 

In the United States, celebration of Mother’s Day began in the early 20th century. It is not related to the many celebrations of mothers and motherhood that have occurred throughout the world over thousands of years, such as the Greek cult to Cybele, the Roman festival of Hilaria, or the Christian Mothering Sunday celebration (originally a commemoration of Mother Church, not motherhood). However, in some countries, Mother’s Day has become synonymous with these older traditions.

PHYSICAL TRAITS (RASGOS FÍSICOS)

Honor Thy Temple

CHARACTER TRAITS (RASGOS DE CARÁCTER

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

SOCIAL TRAITS (RASGOS SOCIALES)

Getting Along with Others

One should express gratitude while they have the opportunity to do so

LEARNING TRAITS

(CARACTERÍSTICAS DE APRENDIZAJE)

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

¡Don’t let that be you!

MISCELLANEOUS (VARIADO)

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

Here is something every mother should teach her daughter.  

As for the guys, don’t be this dude.

BOOK OF THE WEEK (LIBRO DE LA SEMANA)

I found this book full of good advice for anyone

Life Tuneups

by Loren Slocum

 

In Life Tuneups, Loren Slocum empowers and reminds all women―single, married, working, with or without kids―to recognize their unique gifts, celebrate their inner beauty, and take care of themselves as they juggle the myriad facets of their lives.

She insists that when a woman is true to herself, she really can have it all―that she can wake up each day feeling motivated, energized, inspired, and passionate about her life. (Source: Amazon)

MOVIES OF THE WEEK (PELÍCULAS DE LA SEMANA)

Death in Paradise

I caught a little of Season 6 of this show on PBS and have now gone back and started watching Season 1 on Netflix.  It doesn’t take long to get hooked on this humorous detective show and it is not that easy to figure out who is the guilty party.

A British inspector is transferred to Saint-Marie’s police department, but he hates the sun, sea, and sand. The series follow his investigations into murders on the island. Later series see another British DI head the investigative team. (Source: IMDB)

MUSIC OF THE WEEK (MÚSICA DE LA SEMANA)

What can one say about this song, other than

“I pity the fool that don’t like this song.”

Treat Your Mother Right

By Mr. T

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Mexico y Spanish

How many times have you been to Mexico? 

36% – Never

20% – Once

20% – Ten or more times

16% – More than once, but less than ten

8%  – Five to nice times

How fluent are you in Spanish?

40% – A few words

32% – More than just a few words, but far from fluent

28% – Not at all

Spanish language classes taken?

40% – Took Spanish in high school

32% – No formal Spanish classes

12% – Took Spanish in college

8%  – Took adult education Spanish classes

8%  – Took self-study Spanish classes

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Mother’s Day

ART OF THE WEEK (ARTE DE LA SEMANA)

Whistler’s Mother

Arrangement in Grey and Black No.1, best known under its colloquial name Whistler’s Mother, is a painting in oils on canvas created by the American-born painter James McNeill Whistler in 1871.

The subject of the painting is Whistler’s mother, Anna McNeill Whistler. It is exhibited in and held by the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, having been bought by the French state in 1891. It is one of the most famous works by an American artist outside the United States.

It has been variously described as an American icon and a Victorian Mona Lisa. Whistler’s Mother is currently on display at the Art Institute of Chicago through May 21, 2017.

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

(PERSONA EXTRAORDINARIA DE LA SEMANA)

My Mother

My Mother-in-Law

THIS WEEK’S JOKE (BROMA DE LA SEMANA)

TALK TO ME (HÁBLAME)

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Christy, Georgia, Samantha, Sue & Renxkyoko, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Autumn, Carol, Cynthia, Janet, Kirstin, Richard, Shirley, Sheryll & Susan for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Donald, Екатерина, My Valiant Soul & Sophisoph, who started following my blog and my thanks to  Alina, Andrea, Jane, Lily, Marilyn, Melanie, Rohen & Sherri, who liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK (LIBRO)

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS (RECIENTES ACONTECIMIENTOS)

Cinco de Mayo  (Spanish for “Fifth of May”). The date commemorates the Mexican Army’s unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo has taken on a significance beyond that in Mexico. In the U.S., the date has become associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture. In Mexico, the commemoration of the battle continues to be mostly ceremonial, such as through military parades.

In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is sometimes mistaken to be Mexico’s Independence Day—the most important national holiday in Mexico—which is celebrated on September 16, commemorating the war of Mexican independence from Spain.

PHYSICAL TRAITS (RASGOS FÍSICOS)

Honor Thy Temple

Please don’t let this be your diet plan!

CHARACTER TRAITS (RASGOS DE CARÁCTER

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

SOCIAL TRAITS (RASGOS SOCIALES)

Getting Along with Others

Here is a tip, when you have a conversation with a friend.

LEARNING TRAITS

(CARACTERÍSTICAS DE APRENDIZAJE)

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

It seems so many people are determined to be poor, so I thought I would pass on some information that will help these people achieve their goal.

Improve your life with credit cards

Buy a big house

Take the eight-year car loan

Implement a flawed savings strategy

Pay Uncle Sam too much

Get divorced

Take the Jones to the woodshed

Co-sign for someone … or anyone

Take a pass on insurance

If you would like to know more about any of the above ideas for making yourself broke, just click on the link below.

https://www.legion.org/magazine/237078/road-brokesville

MISCELLANEOUS (VARIADO)

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

BOOK OF THE WEEK (LIBRO DE LA SEMANA)

This Year I Will

by M.J. Ryan

This is an easy to read inspirational book about change.  

You can find quotes in it like Goethe’s “The moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too.”

There is a lot of good advice on getting rid of clutter.  Especially when it comes to clothing, just ask yourself “Does this look like it belongs to the person I want to be?”

MOVIES OF THE WEEK (PELÍCULAS DE LA SEMANA)

Wolf Hall

I am now watching this series for the second time and it is every bit as interesting as the first time I watched it on PBS.

After the downfall of Cardinal Wolsey, his secretary, Thomas Cromwell, finds himself amongst the treachery and intrigue of King Henry VIII’s court and soon becomes a close advisor to the King, a role fraught with danger. (Source: IMDB)

Arrival

Regardless of what the critics say below, I pronounce this film DOA

Arrival delivers a must-see experience for fans of thinking person’s sci-fi that anchors its heady themes with genuinely affecting emotion and a terrific performance from Amy Adams. (Source: Rotten Tomatoes)

MUSIC OF THE WEEK (MÚSICA DE LA SEMANA)

Come A Little Bit Closer

By Jay and the Americans

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Leftovers

How long do you keep leftovers until you eat or discard them? 

50% – Less than a week

22% – Less than 5 days

17% – Less than two weeks

11% – Until I have created a new life form

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Mexico y Spanish

ART OF THE WEEK (ARTE DE LA SEMANA)

Detroit Industry Murals 

 

The Detroit Industry Murals are a series of frescoes by the Mexican artist Diego Rivera, consisting of twenty-seven panels depicting industry at the Ford Motor Company. Together they surround the Rivera Court in the Detroit Institute of Arts. Painted between 1932 and 1933, they were considered by Rivera to be his most successful work. On April 23, 2014, the Detroit Industry Murals were given National Historic Landmark Status.

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

(PERSONA EXTRAORDINARIA DE LA SEMANA)

Emiliano Zapata

Emiliano Zapata was a leading figure in the Mexican Revolution (1910–1920), during which he formed and commanded the Liberation Army of the South, an important revolutionary brigade. Followers of Zapata were known as Zapatistas. (Source: Biography.com)

THIS WEEK’S JOKE (BROMA DE LA SEMANA)

TALK TO ME (HÁBLAME)

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Christy, Dan, Darlene, Georgia, Jo, Samantha & Sheryll, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Cindi, Cynthia, Darlene, Elizabeth, Maureen, Nicole, Sheryll, Sheila & Willie for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Dark Soul, Health in Your Hands, Queen of Hearts, Rhythm in Life, Robin Write On, Safira & Yassy, who started following my blog and my thanks to  Barbie, Dave, Карина, Michael & PeggyLee, who liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK (LIBRO)

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS

I started working with Sue in 1987, until I left the company in 2009. I don’t think one could find a smarter, more dedicated or loyal to the company team member.  Last week after 30 years of service, she retired.  Every large corporation has its public faces, but it is people like Sue who really make a great corporation great.

PHYSICAL TRAITS 

Honor Thy Temple

Please don’t let this be your diet plan!

CHARACTER TRAITS

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

I’ve seen people so many times talk themselves out of doing something and someone with less ability taking advantage of the opportunity.  Often, we are our own worse enemy. 

SOCIAL TRAITS

Getting Along with Others

Want to know how to be a friend?

LEARNING TRAITS

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

MISCELLANEOUS 

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

No one becomes anything, let alone extraordinary, without some help along the way.  It is easy to take that help for granted, which is a mistake one may regret .

Richard Fachini was a very cool guy.  He was a manager and I was a newly hired staff auditor when I went with him on my first speaking engagement at a University.  I’ve done my share of speaking engagements since, but Rich got me off to a good start.

BOOK OF THE WEEK

Bike Snob

by Bike Snob NYC

I found this to be a fun, informative and easy to read book.

BikeSnobNYC—cycling’s most prolific, well-known, hilarious, and anonymous blogger—brings a fresh and humorous perspective to the most important vehicle to hit personal transportation since the horse.

Bike Snob treats readers to a laugh-out-loud rant and rave about the world of bikes and their riders, and offers a unique look at the ins and outs of cycling, from its history and hallmarks to its wide range of bizarre practitioners. Throughout, the author lampoons the missteps, pretensions, and absurdities of bike culture while maintaining a contagious enthusiasm for cycling itself.

Bike Snob is an essential volume for anyone who knows, is, or wants to become a cyclist. (Source: iTunes)

MOVIES OF THE WEEK

Jack Reacher: Never Go Back

The critics didn’t like this film, but it is a Jack Reacher film; so I thought it was ok.

Bedazzled (2000)

As many times as I have seen this great film

Bedazzled (1967)

It wasn’t until this past week, that I saw the original 1967 version.  I liked the 2000 version better, but if you liked the 2000 version, you really ought to take a look at this 1967 version.

MUSIC OF THE WEEK

Beethoven / Ray Charles

John Belushi

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Becoming a Better Person

Have you become a better person this year than you were in 2016?

64% – Same

32% – Better

4% – Worse

Before the end of 2017, will you become a better person than you were in 2016?

62% – Yes

19% – No

19% – I don’t know

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Leftovers

ART OF THE WEEK

Nature is perhaps the greatest of all artists and I urge you to see one of Nature’s most impressive creations, the Buffalo.  And there is no where better in my opinion, to see Buffalo than Yellowstone Park.

There are signs every where warning you that these buffalo are wild and dangerous animals and to stay in your car.  

However, like most tourists, I couldn’t resist getting out of my car and having my picture taken next to a buffalo.  It was a very risky and foolish act on my part, but I guess I am just a risk taker.

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

World’s Greatest Hockey Fan

If Hockey had a Hall of Fame category for its greatest fan, Dan would be in it

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

TALK TO ME

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Darlene, Erika, Georgia, Michael, Samantha,Spiritual Journey & Tania, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Annette, Carol, Cynthia, Darlene, Joan, Nandini & Maria for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Cheryl, Jeyran, Melissa  & Sarah, who started following my blog and my thanks to  Anne, Bonnie & Helene, who liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK

Leon & Lulu
96 W. 14 Mile Road
Clawson, MI 48017

(Northern suburbs of Detroit)

If you like books or if you have ever thought of writing a book, Sunday April 30th, 2017, from 11 am to 5 pm at Leon & Lulu’s in Clawson, Michigan; you will have a chance to talk to a lot of authors.  Click on the link below to see who will be there, and if you look closely you see me there also. I  would be delighted if you would stop by and say hello.  Please let me know if you think you might stop by.

 http://www.leonandlulu.com/events/books-authors/

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS

J. Geils Gone

Musician J. Geils, best known for founding The J. Geils Band, was found dead in his home in Groton, Massachusetts, on Tuesday.

I saw him and his band perform a number of times and it isn’t lost on me that he was only a year older than me.

PHYSICAL TRAITS 

Honor Thy Temple

This guy is 80 years old

This woman is 86 years old

No doubt these two people are genetically gifted, but still there is much that we can do to keep ourselves vibrate into our  80s?

CHARACTER TRAITS

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

Last week I posted a picture of the bunnies in my front yard.

Well to my surprise some unknown kind person added three little bunnies to my two large one.  What an amazing act of kindness and an example to all of us.

SOCIAL TRAITS

Getting Along with Others

LEARNING TRAITS

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

I don’t know why this is so hard to learn.

I guess because “da Nile” ain’t just a river in Egypt.

MISCELLANEOUS 

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

We all make stupid decisions once in a while, but please do not to be one of those people who make good decisions only “once in a while”.

BOOK OF THE WEEK

Runner’s World Complete Book of

Beginning Running

by Amby Burfoot

The weather is getting nice for most of us, so if you are thinking about running for fun, health or simply weight loss, you may want to check this book out.  I found it to be very readable.

Recognizing that newcomers to a sport need all the help they can get, Runner’s World now devotes an entire book to guiding the beginning runner through those challenging first days, weeks, and months. Peppered throughout with motivating tips and advice from those who have been there, this much-needed volume presents a can’t-fail program that is sure to help new runners feel and look better and have more energy and less stress. (Source: Goodreads)

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

Push-ups

If you ever wonder how some people can do so many push-ups, you really need to watch this video all the way to the end. It only takes 30 seconds and I think you will find it a good investment of 30 seconds of your time.

MUSIC OF THE WEEK

Best Day of My Life

American Authors

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Doctors

Do you know the cost of medical procedures before they are preformed?

71% – Usually do not

29% – Usually do

How do you primarily view your relationship with your medical doctor?

78% – Are a patient

22% – Are a customer

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Becoming a Better Person

ART OF THE WEEK

We were at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, Scotland a few years ago and took some photos of  these Hanging or Floating Heads.

   

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

Indian Superman with Spider Woman

Superman in all his many forms, is still Superman.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

TALK TO ME

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Carol, Chris, Quirky Girl, Samantha &  Spiritual Journey, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Alexandra, Cindi, Cynthia, Donna, Dianne & Shirley for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Adorable Pet Animals, Priestess  & Pondering Life Too who started following my blog and my thanks to  Ally, Amy, Adelle, Cindy, Dana, Diane, Erika, Rosa & Suzanne, who liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK

Leon & Lulu
96 W. 14 Mile Road
Clawson, MI 48017

(Northern suburbs of Detroit)

If you like books or if you have ever thought of writing a book, Sunday April 30th, 2017, from 11 am to 5 pm at Leon & Lulu’s in Clawson, Michigan; you will have a chance to talk to a lot of authors.  Click on the link below to see who will be there, and if you look closely you see me there also. I  would be delighted if you would stop by and say hello.  Please let me know if you think you might stop by.

 http://www.leonandlulu.com/events/books-authors/

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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

CURRENT EVENTS

Bunnies in the Day

  

Bunnies at Night

PHYSICAL TRAITS 

Honor Thy Temple

Dieting is not a quick fix, but a long slow lifestyle change.

Quick fix diets don’t work, other that this one.

CHARACTER TRAITS

The Foundation for Being Extraordinary

It is important to celebrate your large and even small successes.  And it is even more important to celebrate the large and small successes of your friends as well as their birthdays and anniversaries.  Also, we should never neglect to celebrate holidays.

Here I am celebrating Easter with the Easter Bunny.

SOCIAL TRAITS

Getting Along with Others

It is important to do things with your family and friends.

LEARNING TRAITS

Growth Keeps You Extraordinary

Some guys just never learn, don’t be foolish.

MISCELLANEOUS 

The Odds & Ends of Being Extraordinary

BOOK OF THE WEEK

Living Your Yoga

by Judith Hanson Lasater, Ph.D., P.T.

Of course, if you are into yoga you will want to read this book; but even if you aren’t into yoga this book has something to say.

Using the time-honored wisdom of the Yoga Sutra and the Bhagavad Gita to steer the course, she serves up off-the-mat practices to guide you in deepening your relationships with yourself, your family and friends, and the world around you. 

MOVIES OF THE WEEK

Allied

I didn’t stop watching Allied, but I tend to agree with the critics below.

Critics Consensus: Allied has its moments, but doesn’t quite achieve epic wartime romance status — a disappointment made more profound by the dazzling talent assembled on either side of the camera. [Source: Rotten Tomatoes] 

Melinda and Melinda

This 2005 film is a bit complicated to follow, but I enjoyed it and liked it much more than I did Allied

Two alternating stories, one comedy and the other tragedy, about Melinda’s attempts to straighten out her life.
Director: Woody Allen
Writer: Woody Allen
Stars: Will Ferrell, Vinessa Shaw, Chiwetel Ejiofor

MUSIC OF THE WEEK

I fell for this song the very first time I heard it.  It took me a few years, but I finally got the privilege of seeing Loudon Wainwright III perform it in person.

Daughter

Loudon Wainwright III

LAST WEEK’S POLL – Bicycles

35% – More than a year since they have ridden a bicycle

30% – Rode a bicycle in 2017

26% – More than 5 years since they have ridden a bicycle

9% – More than 20 years since they have ridden a bicycle

0% – Never ridden a bicycle

THIS WEEK’S POLL –  Doctors

ART OF THE WEEK

Art comes in many forms.

    

EXTRAORDINARY PERSON OF THE WEEK

Who says the most extraordinary person of the week has to be human.

Easter Bunny

The Easter Bunny is a folkloric figure and symbol of Easter, depicted as a rabbit bringing Easter eggs.

Originating among German Lutherans, the “Easter Hare” originally played the role of a judge, evaluating whether children were good or disobedient in behaviour at the start of the season of Eastertide.

In legend, the creature carries colored eggs in his basket, candy, and sometimes also toys to the homes of children, and as such shows similarities to Santa Claus or the Christkind, as they both bring gifts to children on the night before their respective holidays. (Source: Wikipedia)

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

TALK TO ME

To leave a comment, just click on the box in the side bar which will take you directly to the comment box.

My thanks to Chris, Christy, Darlene, Georgia, Samantha, Spiritual Journey and Tania, for commenting on last week’s post. All you have to do is just click on “Comment”, scroll down to the “Leave a Comment” box.  Type in your comment and then click the “Post Comment” box.

BLOG & FACEBOOK

Also, please consider passing this blog on to others. My thanks to Carol, Cynthia, Darlene, Jenny, Sheryll, Shirley & Willie  for sharing my post last week on Facebook.

My thanks to Cats That Post, who started following my blog and my thanks to  Mary, Natasha, Olya & Simone, who liked  my Harmony Books & Films Facebook page.

BOOK

Leon & Lulu
96 W. 14 Mile Road
Clawson, MI 48017

(Northern suburbs of Detroit)

If you like books or if you have ever thought of writing a book, Sunday April 30th, 2017, from 11 am to 5 pm at Leon & Lulu’s in Clawson, Michigan; you will have a chance to talk to a lot of authors.  Click on the link below to see who will be there, and if you look closely you see me there also. I  would be delighted if you would stop by and say hello.  Please let me know if you think you might stop by.

 http://www.leonandlulu.com/events/books-authors/

The basis of this blog sprung from my book, which is available on-line from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.  The Kindle version of my book is $4.95.

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