11/23/15 – A Disturbing World

November 23, 2015 Wm. Allen4 Comments

CURRENT EVENTS

Viva la France!

Normally, I post something different each week; but I’m going to stay with Viva la France again this week.

SELF-HELP BOOKS

Keep Calm and Carry On is a little book of motivational quotes. The title coming from a motivational poster produced by the British government in 1939 in preparation for the Second World War. The book came out in 2009 and I first read it in 2010. It doesn’t take long to read it, since it is just quotes. But the title appealed to me during these troubled times.

You can read more about the history of the motivational quote used as the title for this book on Wikipedia. Just click on:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keep_Calm_and_Carry_On

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

Sometimes the world is so disturbing, that one alternative to depression is to dance. I think I’m going to dance now.

LAST WEEK POLL – A Christmas Carol

It seems like many of us have seen a movie based up the story, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. And I thought a surprising number of us have seen a play based upon the story. And a good number of us have even read the story.

THIS WEEK’S POLL – Thanksgiving

SONG OF THE WEEK

I guess I’m not the only one feeling the need to dance. Click on the link below and scroll down a little past the history and you will see some performers from the past dancing to Uptown Funk.

Uptown Funk

http://www.littlethings.com/uptown-funk-dance-oldies-classic-vintage-nostalgia-vts/?utm_source=LTts&utm_medium=Facebook&utm_campaign=performances

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

Napoléon Bonaparte

Napoléon Bonaparte (15 August 1769 – 5 May 1821) was a French military and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution [ ]

Napoleon dominated European affairs for over a decade while leading France against a series of coalitions in the Napoleonic Wars. He won most of these wars and the vast majority of his battles, rapidly gaining control of continental Europe before his ultimate defeat in 1815. One of the greatest commanders in history, his campaigns are studied at military schools worldwide and he remains one of the most celebrated and controversial political figures in Western history.

In civil affairs, Napoleon had a major long-term impact by bringing liberal reforms to the countries that he conquered, especially the Low Countries, Switzerland, Italy, and large parts of Germany. He implemented fundamental liberal policies in France and throughout Western Europe. His lasting legal achievement was the Napoleonic Code, which has been adopted in various forms by a quarter of the world’s legal systems, from Japan to Quebec. (Source: Wikipedia)

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I always appreciate those that leave comments on my weekly posts, since it encourages me to continue these posts. Thank you Carol, Carolyn and Martilias. Leaving a comment is easy, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post. And if instead of seeing “Leave A Comment”, you see “# Comments”, just click on that and scroll down to leave your comment.

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MY BOOK

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

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http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Im-Tired-Being-Ordinary/Wm-Allen/9780990388692?id=6429711012885

11/16/15 – Viva la France!

November 16, 2015 Wm. Allen7 Comments

CURRENT EVENTS

Viva la France!

World Powerlifting Congress

I took second place at the World Powerlifting contest in Maia, Portugal; coming in second to the extraordinary Evageny Khudolleev of Russia.

I found the Russians very friendly and extremely supportive of me. Below is a couple new Russian friends that I made at the contest.

As I have mentioned in the past; one never accomplishes anything without some help along the way. You may recall me mentioning Tony, Walter and Art’s contributions to my being at the contest in Portugal.

Well I owe a big thank you to John Harp, who I met at the weigh-in the day before the contest. He was kind enough to coach me through the lifting process, which was somewhat different than how I had done it in the USA. Plus, John was encouraging me for each of my lifts. I believe without his help, the results would not have been as favorable for me.

A Christmas Carol

I saw this play yesterday with some of my best friends and I think seeing a live performance of A Christmas Carol is a great way to kick off the Christmas Holidays. Usually, you can find a performance somewhere near you. I happened to see this one at Meadow Brook Theater in Rochester, Michigan.

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

SELF-HELP BOOKS

I first read “The Art of War” back in 1988 and have reviewed it every so often.

The Art of War is an ancient Chinese military treatise attributed to Sun Tzu, a high-ranking military general, strategist and tactician [ ]. It has had an influence on Eastern and Western military thinking, business tactics, legal strategy and beyond.

The book was first translated into the French language in 1772 by French Jesuit Jean Joseph Marie Amiot and a partial translation into English was attempted by British officer Everard Ferguson Calthrop in 1905. The first annotated English language translation was completed and published by Lionel Giles in 1910. Leaders as diverse as Mao Zedong, General Vo Nguyen Giap, General Douglas MacArthur and leaders of Imperial Japan have drawn inspiration from the work. (Source: Wikipedia)

LAST WEEK’S QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

Last week’s poll involved five frogs on a long. Four decide to jump off the log, how many are left?

Congratulations to the over 80% of you who answered that five frogs were left. Why, because deciding isn’t doing.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

French Kiss

To demonstrate my support for the people of France, I thought I would choose a movie with a French theme. This is a very nice movie and hopefully will take your mind off the troubles of our world, at least for a little while.

The film is about a woman who flies to France to confront her straying fiancé and gets into trouble when the charming crook seated next to her uses her to smuggle a stolen diamond necklace. French Kiss was filmed on location in Paris, the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur région of southeastern France, and Cannes. (Source: Wikipedia)

LAST WEEK POLL – Health

Regarding the first poll on health, 57% of us believed the people of the USA are less healthier than other people in the world.

However, 41% of us believe we are as healthy as other people in the world and another 41% of us believe we are healthier than other people in the world.

THIS WEEK’S POLL – A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens is a holiday classic. It is not just a book, but a number of movies have been using the story as its basis and many plays are being performed at this time of the year.

SONG OF THE WEEK

Given what happened in Paris and the threats against the USA; it just had to be Bruce Springsteen’s Born in the U.S.A. this song this week.Here is a song about taking care of business, plus I am dedicating this song to all the business women out there.

Born in the U.S.A.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPhWR4d3FJQ

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

Davy Crockett

Davy Crockett (August 17, 1786 – March 6, 1836) was a 19th-century American folk hero, frontiersman, soldier, and politician. He is commonly referred to in popular culture by the epithet “King of the Wild Frontier”. He represented Tennessee in the U.S. House of Representatives, served in the Texas Revolution, and died at the Battle of the Alamo.

Crockett grew up in East Tennessee, where he gained a reputation for hunting and storytelling. After being made a colonel in the militia of Lawrence County, Tennessee, he was elected to the Tennessee state legislature in 1821. In 1825, Crockett was elected to the U.S. Congress, where he vehemently opposed many of the policies of President Andrew Jackson, most notably the Indian Removal Act. Crockett’s opposition to Jackson’s policies led to his defeat in the 1831 elections. He won again in 1833, then narrowly lost in 1835, prompting his angry departure to Texas (then the Mexican state of Tejas) shortly thereafter. In early 1836, Crockett took part in the Texas Revolution and was killed at the Battle of the Alamo in March. (Source: Wikipedia)

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I always appreciate those that leave comments on my weekly posts, since it encourages me to continue these posts. Leaving a comment is easy, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post. And if instead of seeing “Leave A Comment”, you see “# Comments”, just click on that and scroll down to leave your comment.

If you think this blog has any merit, please pass it on to your friends, as well as liking my Facebook page.

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

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11/09/15 – Taking Care of Business

November 9, 2015 Wm. AllenLeave a comment

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBqxZAf3_FE

In chapter 40 of my book, I briefly talk about paying attention to your instincts. If something seems too good to be true, it probably isn’t true.

SELF-HELP BOOKS

I’ve suggested this book before, but I thought given the circumstances that I am at the World Powerlifting Congress competition in Maia, Portugal; I thought it was particularly appropriate.

CURRENT EVENTS

World Powerlifting Congress

I’m here in Maia, Portugal and as I look at the representatives from other countries, I now realize I should have trained harder and watched my diet far closer. I will not make that mistake at next year’s WPC World Championship.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

The gods help them that help themselves.

Source: Aesop

This was true in Aesop’s time and it is true today. Wishing, hoping and praying will not alone make it happen, you have to take some action.

As I say in my book, there are five frogs on a long. Four decide to jump off the log, how many are left?

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

The Rewrite

Here is a film that I really enjoyed on the plane flying to Portugal.

An Oscar-winning writer in a slump leaves Hollywood to teach screenwriting at a college on the East Coast, where he falls for a single mom taking classes there. (Source: IMDB)

LAST WEEK POLL – Seeing the world

I suspect I poorly worded my poll, since only 27% of us have visited North America. I do have some non-North American readers of this blog, but not that many.

As for the other areas of the world that readers have visited:

Europe 22%

Asia or Australia 17%

South or Central America 17%

Middle East 10%

Africa 8%

North or South Pole 0%

THIS WEEK’S POLL – Health

I hear the typical person living in the USA spends more effort maintaining their car than they do their own bodies. So how do you think the USA as well as yourself fares when compared to other people in the world.

SONG OF THE WEEK

Here is a song about taking care of business, plus I am dedicating this song to all the business women out there.

Short Skirt Long Jacket

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7aDstrDMf0

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

Jack LaLanne

I can recall watching Jack LaLanne on TV in the morning before I went to school. There weren’t that many people talking about fitness in the 1950s.

LaLanne presented fitness and exercise advice on television for 34 years. The Jack LaLanne Show was the longest-running television exercise program. According to the SF Chronicle TV program archives, it first began on September 28, 1953 as a 15-minute local morning program (sandwiched between the morning news and a cooking show) on San Francisco’s ABC television station, KGO-TV, with LaLanne paying for the airtime himself as a way to promote his gym and related health products. [ ] In 1959, the ABC network picked up the show for nationwide broadcast, which continued until 1985. (Source: Wikipedia)

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I always appreciate those that leave comments on my weekly posts and last week Sue, Tania and Ron were kind enough to live a comment. Thank you for the encouragement. Leaving a comment is easy, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post. And if instead of seeing “Leave A Comment”, you see “# Comments”, just click on that and scroll down to leave your comment.

If you think this blog has any merit, please pass it on to your friends, as well as liking my Facebook page.

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

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Im-Tired-Being-Ordinary/Wm-Allen/9780990388692?id=6429711012885

11/02/15 – There is more to lifting weights than just lifting weights

November 2, 2015 Wm. Allen10 Comments

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

In Chapter 29 of my book I talk about the importance of listening to understand; plus, active listening is one of the greatest compliments you can give someone.

SELF-HELP BOOKS

The Soul’s Whisper by Kimberly Verhamme, is aimed at children and it is a nice book to read to one’s child as well as generating some interesting discussions. With that said, I have enjoyed reading it and found it has a lot of good reminders for adults too.

CURRENT EVENTS

World Powerlifting Congress

Well, it has been a while since I went overseas to represent the United States of America, as you can see from the photo below taken in 1966.

(Major General Rosson promoting me to Specialist 5 while I was in Viet nam and he was the reason I went to college until I was in my mid-50s. When that guy told you to go to college, you went.)

I’ll be leaving for Portugal this week as one of the members of Team USA for the World Powerlifting Congress’s 2015 World Championships in Portugal. I can’t say this was a dream come true since I could never have imagined such an opportunity. The point of all this is the importance of having friends around you to encourage you. I was lucky to have:

Tony Mangino, who got me back in the gym years ago

(Tony’s not with us any longer, but I still have that trophy he is holding & I was with him when he won it)

Walter Crescentini, who got me into competitive power lifting years ago.

(Walter coaching me during a bench press contest. Walter also is no longer with us, but every time I am in a contest, I miss him greatly.)

(Walter, me & Tony’s brother Geno)

Art Little who had more faith in me that I could do this, than I had in myself.

I devoted Chapter 27 of my book to “Friends”. The question for all of us is, “Are we the kind of friend that brings out the best in others, encourages them and are glad for their successes? If we are, then we are extraordinary by helping others to become extraordinary.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

How often have you been told, I’m sorry but I just don’t have enough time. Actually, we all get the same 24 hours a day. Perhaps, those who say this are simply being polite. Since saying they don’t have enough time is far nicer to hear than saying you or your request is not a priority. In chapter 37 of my book, I stress how important it is to make good use of your time as well as mention some time saving tips.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

The Best Offer

Although this isn’t my usual type of movie, I thought this mystery suspense movie was well done. As for lessons to be learned from this movie, it does relate to Chapter 40 of my book that talks about seeing what is there rather than what you want to be there.

A master auctioneer becomes obsessed with an extremely reclusive heiress who collects fine art.d (Source: IMDB)

LAST WEEK POLL – Have you ever spoken to a famous person

It seems like many of us have actually spoken to an entertainer. Close behind are those of us who have spoken to an author or artist, followed closely by those of us who have spoken to some other kind if famous person.

As for the impact of speaking with a famous person, there was a tie between those who thought it had a lasting impact and those who thought there was no impact. However, a number of you thought speaking with a famous person has a impact for a little while.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

In chapter 48 I talk about the importance of seeing the world, so I thought you might find it interesting to learn of all the places your fellow blog readers have been.

SONG OF THE WEEK

Monster Mash

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2PoSljk8cE&feature=share

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

I have never trained in a gym that did not have a picture of Arnold on its walls. The discipline of the gym carries over to your outside activities.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnold Schwarzenegger; born July 30, 1947, is an Austrian-American actor, model, producer, director, activist, businessman, investor, writer, philanthropist, former professional bodybuilder, and politician. Schwarzenegger served two terms as the 38th Governor of California from 2003 until 2011.

Schwarzenegger began weight training at the age of 15. He won the Mr. Universe title at age 20 and went on to win the Mr. Olympia contest seven times. Schwarzenegger has remained a prominent presence in bodybuilding and has written many books and articles on the sport. He is widely considered to be among the greatest bodybuilders of all times as well as its biggest icon. Schwarzenegger gained worldwide fame as a Hollywood action film icon. Schwarzenegger’s breakthrough film was the sword-and-sorcery epic Conan the Barbarian in 1982, which was a box-office hit and resulted in a sequel. In 1984, he appeared in James Cameron’s science-fiction thriller film The Terminator, which was a massive critical and box-office success. Schwarzenegger subsequently reprised the Terminator character in the franchise’s later installments in 1991, 2003, and 2015.[3][4][5] He appeared in a number of successful films, such as Commando (1985), The Running Man (1987), Predator (1987), Twins (1988), Total Recall (1990), Kindergarten Cop (1990) and True Lies (1994). He was nicknamed the “Austrian Oak” in his bodybuilding days, “Arnie” during his acting career, and “The Governator” (a portmanteau of “Governor” and “The Terminator”, one of his best-known movie roles).

BLOG

I always appreciate those that leave comments on my weekly posts and last week three of you were kind enough to live a comment. Thank you very much. Leaving a comment is easy, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post. And if instead of seeing “Leave A Comment”, you see “# Comments”, just click on that and scroll down to leave your comment.

If you think this blog has any merit, please pass it on to your friends, as well as liking my Facebook page.

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

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Im-Tired-Being-Ordinary/Wm-Allen/9780990388692?id=6429711012885

10/26/15 – Willie, Leon & Lulu, Erik and Gandhi

October 26, 2015October 26, 2015 Wm. Allen6 Comments

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

Sometimes things are just so terrible that it helps to find humor in them. I’m hoping this is how everyone will take this short video. However, you will have to stay with the video about 25 seconds to see where it is going.

[Warning: If this isn’t an actual broadcast, it should be]

https://www.facebook.com/serbevents/videos/10153731161177125/

SELF-HELP BOOKS

The Tao of Willie is a fun book to read and provides a great deal of wisdom.

CURRENT EVENTS

Michigan APF Fall Open

Please don’t be too quick to allow your age to prevent you from doing something you want to do.

I was the oldest lifter in the two day powerlifting contest in Grand Rapids last Friday and Saturday. My lift is the deadlift and there were plenty of people there who deadlifted far more than me. Still, I set two state records in the 90 Kg Masters 6 class and I will be representing the USA in world powerlifting competition in Portugal next month.

Here I am lifting 303 pounds for a age group state record.

Books & Authors Event – Leon & Lulu

If you didn’t make it to yesterday’s Books & Authors event at Leon & Lulu in Clawson, MI; you missed the opportunity to talk one-on-one with over 50 authors. Plus, Leon & Lulu is a very cool store with many unique items.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

Never dim yourself for the comfort of others,

make them wear sunglasses

Source: Unknown

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

Night of the Living Dead

This 1968 movie is one of the most scary movies that I have ever seen, but if you read below you will learn that it is more than just a scary movie.

[Night of the Living Dead] eventually garnered critical acclaim and has been selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry, as a film deemed, “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” (Source: Wikipedia)

LAST WEEK POLL – Your Favorite Alcoholic Beverage

Twenty-nine of you voted for your favorite alocholic beverage. Wine was the overwhelming favorite with 12 votes or 41%. Beer came in second with 8 votes, followed by 5 votes for mixed drinks and only one of you preferred liquor. Non-drinkers were only 3 or 10% of those who voted.

As for belief about whether alcohol preferences says something about a person, 60% thought no and 40% thought yes.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

I think all of us have seen famous people, but I thought it would be interesting to hear how many of us have actually spoken with a famous person, even if it was a brief greeting.

Follow-up poll

SONG OF THE WEEK

Your Song

This week’s song is an Elton John classic, titled Your Song and it is performed by my friend Erik Loszewski. I’m not sure what you will be doing October 31, but Erik and his buddies will be at Little Loraine’s in Mt Clemens from 9:30-1:30.

https://www.facebook.com/erik.loszewski/videos/10203989856018410/

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

Gandhi

[Warning: If the following isn’t a true story, it should be]

Rather than provide my usual brief bio of the person I have selected as the extraordinary person of the week, I thought the following would tell you so much more about Gandhi than mere dates and events.

When Mahatma Gandhi was studying law at the University College of London, a white professor, whose last name was Peters, disliked him intensely and always displayed prejudice and animosity towards him..

Also, because Gandhi never lowered his head when addressing him as he expected, there were always “arguments” and confrontations. One day, Mr. Peters was having lunch at the dining room of the University, and Gandhi came along with his tray and sat next to the professor. The professor said, “Mr Gandhi, you do not understand. A pig and a bird do not sit together to eat.”

Gandhi looked at him as a parent would a rude child and calmly replied, “You do not worry professor. I’ll fly away,” and he went and sat at another table. Mr. Peters, reddened with rage, decided to take revenge on the next test paper, but Gandhi responded brilliantly to all questions.

Mr. Peters, unhappy and frustrated, asked him the following question. “Mr Gandhi, if you were walking down the street and found a package, and within was a bag of wisdom and another bag with a lot of money, which one would you take?” Without hesitating, Gandhi responded, “The one with the money, of course.”

Mr. Peters, smiling sarcastically said, “I, in your place, would have taken the wisdom, don’t you think?” Gandhi shrugged indifferently and responded, “Each one takes what he doesn’t have.”

Mr. Peters, by this time was fit to be tied. So great was his anger that he wrote on Gandhi’s exam sheet the word “idiot” and gave it to Gandhi.. Gandhi took the exam sheet and sat down at his desk, trying very hard to remain calm while he contemplated his next move.

A few minutes later, Gandhi got up, went to the professor and said to him in a dignified but sarcastically polite tone, “Mr. Peters, you signed the sheet, but you did not give me the grade.”

BLOG

I always appreciate those that leave comments on my weekly posts and last week four of you were kind enough to live a comment. Thank you very much. Leaving a comment is easy, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post. And if instead of seeing “Leave A Comment”, you see “# Comments”, just click on that and scroll down to leave your comment.

If you think this blog has any merit, please pass it on to your friends, as well as liking my Facebook page.

MY BOOK

My book can be purchased on-line from Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. It is also available in a ebook format.

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

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Im-Tired-Being-Ordinary/Wm-Allen/9780990388692?id=6429711012885

10/19/15 – All Over the Place

October 19, 2015October 20, 2015 Wm. Allen7 Comments

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

Chapter 31 of my book discusses the importance of expressing gratitude for even the small things that people do for you. It seems so many people fail to perform this simple courtesy, as illustrated in the joke below.

SELF-HELP BOOKS

My friend, Reza, tells me that although the title of his book says, “for Healthcare” that the concepts and tools mentioned in the book are applicable to any service, manufacturing or construction operation.

If you believe you and your organization may possibly benefit from this book; I would be glad to send it free of charge to you. Just let me know at mailto:harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

CURRENT EVENTS

Michigan APF Fall Open

In Chapter 2 of my book, I mention the importance of progressive resistance training with weights. No doubt I have carried it to an extreme, as I will again be deadlifting in Grand Rapids this Friday in preparation for world competition in Portugal in November. I’m certainly not recommending anyone take up competitive powerlifting; however, you really need to do some type of weight bearing exercise.

Detroit Free Press Talmer Bank Race

The Detroit Free Press Talmer Bank race was yesterday and if any of you were in that race or similar races in the past, perhaps you will enjoy this:

I am also not advocating you run a marathon; however, I am recommending you do some type of cardiovascular exercise at least 30 minutes a day. I know, some of you will say you don’t have time of exercise; well, no one does. They make the time, because it is important.

Books & Authors Event – Leon & Lulu

Folks, this coming Sunday, October 25, from 11 a.m until 5 p.m. I am going to be at Leon and Lulu in Clawson, MI. Please stop by and visit me as well as this really cool store; plus you will get a chance to talk to some interesting authors. For more information, just click on the link below.

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

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

The Dead Walk the Earth, Yet They Live and They Kill

Chapter 20 of my book talks about the importance of celebrating not just your own successes, but even more so the successes of your friends. Also, holidays are definitely a reason for celebrations and Halloween is one of the really just pure fun holidays.

Although in a prior poll, only 5% of you planned to watch a scary movie for Halloween, I still thought it appropriate to suggest a Halloween type film. This one was made by my friend Mike Kinnunen, in 2005. I’m not sure how to obtain a copy of it; but if you contact me, I will pass your email or comment on to Mike.

LAST WEEK POLL – Your Favorite Music Decade

I never understand why more of you don’t vote, since I always have at least 70 people check out this blog each week. Anyway, 19 of you voted on your favorite music decade.

Every decade from 1901 through the 1980s received three votes. The 1990s received 2 votes. The earliest (1900 or earlier) and the latest (2000 or later) only received one vote each.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

Given my comments about the importance of celebrating and since alcoholic beverages for so many are part of any celebrations, I thought it may be interesting to have a poll on one’s alcohol preferences.

Follow-up poll

SONG OF THE WEEK

Daughter

Since Halloween is about kids and adults who want to be kids again, I thought this song would be appropriate, plus I really like it. I was fortunate a few years ago to see Loudon perform live in Ann Arbor at The Ark.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4_oSGmhPAc

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

Geronimo

Given the recent Columbus Day, I thought I would give some recognition to native Americans

Geronimo was born in eastern Arizona in the year 1829. At the time, his homeland was claimed by both the Mexican government and the Apache people. Geronimo’s family was part of the Bedonkohe band of the Apache.

At around the age of seventeen, Geronimo became an Apache warrior.

One day [ ] the Apache camp was attacked by the Mexicans. Geronimo’s wife, children, and mother were all killed. [ ]

Geronimo then gathered the warriors of his village together and set off to get revenge against the Mexicans. Over the next several years, he led many raids into Mexico. He constantly harassed Mexican settlements, stealing their horses and killing their men.

Geronimo received his name sometime during the revenge battles with the Mexicans. No one is quite sure exactly how he got his name. Many say it was from the Mexican soldiers or from a Spanish officer who thought Geronimo reminded him of a character from a Spanish play.

After the Mexican-American war, the United States claimed control over the land where the Apache lived. Geronimo and the Apache began to fight with the American settlers. [ ]

The U.S. Army [ ] sent thousands of troops to search the hills of Arizona in order to stop him from raiding. In 1886, they finally caught up with him and he was forced to surrender.

Geronimo spent the rest of his life as a prisoner of war. Although he was eventually granted some freedom, he was never allowed to return to his homeland. He became a celebrity and even attended the 1904 World’s Fair.

Geronimo Died: February 17, 1909 in Fort Sill, Oklahoma

[For more information, see source: Biographies for Kids: Geronimo

BLOG

I always appreciate those that leave comments on my weekly posts. I wish more of you would do so; since it is so very encouraging. Leaving a comment is easy, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post.

If you think this blog has any merit, please pass it on to your friends.

MY BOOK

My book can be purchased on-line from Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. It is also available in a ebook format.

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

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Im-Tired-Being-Ordinary/Wm-Allen/9780990388692?id=6429711012885

10/12/15 – Johnny B. Goode

October 12, 2015October 20, 2015 Wm. Allen1 Comment

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

I devoted the first section of my book to fitness; since if you don’t have your health, nothing else much matters.

SELF-HELP BOOKS

A very good friend of mine, Reza Ziaee, along with James Bologna, wrote the book below. I bought a copy of it because I like to support the creative efforts of my friends. However, I have been retired for almost six years now, so this book will likely do you far more good than me.

If you are in healthcare and believe you and your organization may possibly benefit from this book; I would be glad to give it to you. Just let me know at mailto:harmonybooksfilmsllc@comcast.net

CURRENT EVENTS

CNN Democratic Primary Debate

Tuesday, October 13, 2015
9pm ET (8pm CT, 6pm PT)
Location: Wynn Las Vegas
Sponsors: CNN, Nevada Democratic Party
Moderator: Anderson Cooper
Candidates: Clinton, Sanders, O’Malley, Webb, Chafee

Regardless of your party affiliation or lack of an affiliation, to be an informed voter; you should watch this debate.

Detroit Free Press Talmer Bank Race

This coming Sunday is the Detroit Free Press Talmer Bank race and how many races are there where you actually run in two different countries, at least for the marathon and international half-marathon. I’ve ran the full marathon three times and the international half-marathon four times and I can say one of the greatest thrills of my life is entering the Detroit Windsor tunnel, running through the tunnel and coming out on Woodward Avenue to the roar of the Detroit crowd–it is an experience one never forgets.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

“One of these days, you will not be able to do this.

Today isn’t that day.”

Source: Sign in the crowd at the 2011 Chicago Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

Back to the Future (1985)

This is a fun movie and I believe it still stands up to the test of time; plus it relates to my song of the week.

A young man is accidentally sent 30 years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown, and must make sure his high-school-age parents unite in order to save his own existence. (Source: IMDB)

The Intern

I saw this film last week and I thought it was great and I want to encourage people to see it. Perhaps, I liked the film because I so easily relate to the character Ben Whittaker in the film.

Starting a new job can be a difficult challenge, especially if you’re already retired. Looking to get back into the game, 70-year-old widower Ben Whittaker (Robert De Niro) seizes the opportunity to become a senior intern at an online fashion site. Ben soon becomes popular with his younger co-workers, including Jules Ostin (Anne Hathaway), the boss and founder of the company. Whittaker’s charm, wisdom and sense of humor help him develop a special bond and growing friendship with Jules.

LAST WEEK POLL – Your Favorite Season of the Year

No real surprises from this poll. Nine out of 18 or 50% of you preferred Summer. Fall came in second with six votes and Spring came in third with three votes. And not surprisingly, no one voted for winter.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

Since I started posting a song of the week, I’ve had a few discussions about music and thought a poll related to music may be interesting to some of you. I realize I may have bias the poll with some of my recent selections for song of the week, but hopefully that will not distort the results too much. Again, you may only vote for one decade.

SONG OF THE WEEK

Johnny B Goode

Michael J. Fox does a great job of this song in the video below from the 1985 movie Back to the Future

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1i5coU-0_Q

I think it will be fun for you to compare Fox’s performance to the real deal, Chuck Berry. Stay with this video for 1958 a bit and you will see some fantastic entertaining. Chuck didn’t need fireworks, costumes or anything to keep your attention. He is just absolutely extraordinary.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ROwVrF0Ceg

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

Leonardo da Vinci

[ ] Leonardo da Vinci, [ ] (15 April 1452 – 2 May 1519) [ ] areas of interest included invention, painting, sculpting, architecture, science, music, mathematics, engineering, literature, anatomy, geology, astronomy, botany, writing, history, and cartography. [ ]

Many historians and scholars regard Leonardo as a great exemplar of the “Renaissance Man”, an individual of “unquenchable curiosity” and “feverishly inventive imagination”.[ ] According to art historian Helen Gardner, the scope and depth of his interests were without precedent in recorded history, and “his mind and personality seem to us superhuman, the man himself mysterious and remote”.[ ]

Born out of wedlock to a notary, Piero da Vinci, and a peasant woman, Caterina, in Vinci in the region of Florence, Leonardo was educated in the studio of the renowned Florentine painter Andrea del Verrocchio. Much of his earlier working life was spent in the service of Ludovico il Moro in Milan. He later worked in Rome, Bologna and Venice, and he spent his last years in France at the home awarded him by Francis I.

Leonardo was, and is, renowned primarily as a painter. Among his works, the Mona Lisa is the most famous and most parodied portrait[ ] and The Last Supper the most reproduced religious painting of all time [ ]

Leonardo is revered for his technological ingenuity. He conceptualised flying machines, a type of armoured fighting vehicle, concentrated solar power, an adding machine,[] and the double hull, also outlining a rudimentary theory of plate tectonics. Relatively few of his designs were constructed or were even feasible during his lifetime[ ]

Today, Leonardo is widely recognised as one of the most diversely talented individuals ever to have lived in the world.[] (Source: Wikipedia)

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MY BOOK

My book can be purchased on-line from Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. It is also available in a ebook format.

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

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Im-Tired-Being-Ordinary/Wm-Allen/9780990388692?id=6429711012885

10/05/15 – Results of Best Decade of Your Life Poll

October 5, 2015 Wm. Allen2 Comments

SELF-HELP BOOKS

I read a lot of newspapers and news magazines as well as listen and watch the news. It is rather depressing and so this week instead of suggesting a book; I am posting something I find up lifting and hope you will too.

Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible, without surrender be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery.

But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.

Especially, do not feign affection.

Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.

But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.

Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding, as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful.

Strive to be happy.

CURRENT EVENTS

Oregon College Shooting Tragedy

I suspect more than a few people knew this sick individual was capable of doing a terrible act like this and they did nothing to get this sick individual help or prevent this tragedy. I’ve heard it said that a bad person is a good person’s job; well someone did not do their job.

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

We are commanded to seek out those who are lost.

We are to be our brother’s keeper.

Source: Joseph B. Wirthlin

MOVIE OF THE WEEK – Great Balls of Fire

Moving to a lighter note, this week’s movie recommendation is Great Balls of Fire. The actor Dennis Quaid did a fantastic job of capturing this wild man – Jerry Lee Lewis. Late in life. I had the privilege of actually seeing Jerry Lee Lewis perform; what a thrill.

LAST WEEK POLL – The Best Decade of Your Life

There were 20 votes this week and those voting indicated that they thought the best decade was or will be the years 40 through 49 with five votes.

The following two decades tied with four votes each. They are:

30 through 39

60 through 69

Next came 50 through 59 with two votes.

The following decades received one vote each

20 through 29

70 through 79

80 through 89

90 through 89

90 through 99

100 or greater

And I found most interesting that the two youngest decades received no votes at all. They were:

Less than 9

10 through 19

Personally, I’ve always thought of life in terms of the seasons, with the years less 20 being Spring, or a time of growth. The next two decades, or 21 through 40 being summer, when one is in full bloom. 41 through 60 is a time of Fall and things start falling as those of us who have been in that season know so well. And finally, we enter Winter, or the final season of life, where one’s hair turns white like snow.

THIS WEEK’S POLL

Since I just finished speaking of the season of life, I thought you may enjoy a poll where you vote for your favorite season of the year. Again, you may only vote for one decade.

SONG OF THE WEEK – You have to at least check out this live 1964 performance of Jerry Lee Lewis and I would love to know what you think, so please leave a comment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dC0DseCyYE

THIS WEEK’S JOKE

I’m always trying to keep you informed of the latest health studies. Here is one you should know about.

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

Bruce Lee

Bruce Lee [ ] November 27, 1940 – July 20, 1973) was a Hong Kong American martial artist, Hong Kong action film actor, martial arts instructor, philosopher, filmmaker,[ ] and the founder of Jeet Kune Do. [ ] He is widely considered by commentators, critics, media and other martial artists to be one of the most influential martial artists of all time,[ ] and a pop culture icon of the 20th century. [ ] He is often credited with helping to change the way Asians were presented in American films.[ ] (Source: Wikipedia)

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Last week, two people left comments. I hope more of you will start leaving comments. To leave a comment, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post.

If you think this blog has any merit, please pass it on to your friends.

MY BOOK – My book can be purchased on-line from Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. It is also available in a ebook format.

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

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Im-Tired-Being-Ordinary/Wm-Allen/9780990388692?id=6429711012885

09/28/15 – St. Ignace

September 28, 2015 Wm. Allen5 Comments

CURRENT EVENTS

Yoga Berra

Yogi Berra’s baseball exploits as a New York Yankees catching great spoke for themselves. He spoke for himself in a charmingly fractured way that introduced “Yogi-isms” such as “It’s déjà vu all over again” into the American lexicon.

The Hall of Famer died at the of 90 on Tuesday evening, the Yogi Berra Museum announced. He undoubtedly would be reminding people of what he once said: “You should always go to other people’s funerals, otherwise, they won’t come to yours.” [ ] In 1999 he was one of 100 players selected to Major League Baseball’s All-Century team. (Source: USA Today)

St. Ignace, MI

Carol and I are in St. Ignace, which is in Michigan’s Upper Peninsular, just on the other side of the Mackinaw Bridge, which is behind us.

If you are around this area, I suggest you stop in at Fort Algonquin, as Carol is doing below.

It isn’t really a fort, but an indian gift shop. You will find interesting items for sale. And be sure to ask the proprietor, Lone Wolf Dancing on Thunder, about the history of the Indian tribes of this area.

It will soon be closing up for the season, like so many restaurants and stores in this area do. You can find more specific information about Fort Algonquin in St. Ignace at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Fort-Algonquin/136284709744148?sk=wall

SELF-HELP BOOKS – The Yogi Book

I read this book long ago and like most of the books I recommend, this is a fun and easy to read book.

MOVIE OF THE WEEK – Moneyball

Out of respect for Yogi Berra, I wanted to suggest a movie this week that had a baseball theme.

Based on a true story, Moneyball is a movie for anybody who has ever dreamed of taking on the system. Brad Pitt stars as Billy Beane, the general manager of the Oakland A’s [ ] The onetime jock teams with Ivy League grad Peter Brand (Jonah Hill) [ ], recruiting bargain players that the scouts call flawed, but all of whom have an ability to get on base, score runs, and win games. [ ]

Source: http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/moneyball/

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK

I also think that what’s wrong with all of us

is that we don’t show enough love toward each other.

Source: Little Richard

LAST WEEK POLL – What You Plan to Do for Halloween

Give out treats – 26%

Decorate your house – 24%

Go to a Halloween party – 21%

Ignore Halloween – 13%

Wear a costume – 11%

Watch a scary movie – 5%

THIS WEEK’S POLL

In chapter 37 of my book, I talk about time in a number of ways. One of those ways is aging and the importance of not letting your age stop you from starting projects. So, I thought I would ask in this week’s poll what decade of our live we think was or will be the best. Sorry, you can vote for only one decade.

SONG OF THE WEEK -I was fortunate to see Little Richard twice in my life. Once in the late 1950s and again in the early 21st century. I am so glad that some of his early performances were captured.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kM1khne_sg

THIS WEEK’S JOKE -Since this truly extraordinary Pope is making his extraordinary visit to the U.S.A. this week, I thought something related to the Bible would be appropriate.

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE – Little Richard

I’ve been fortunate to see Little Richard in person, twice in my life, once when I was very young and once again in my 60s.

Richard Wayne Penniman (born December 5, 1932), known by his stage name Little Richard, is an American recording artist, songwriter and musician.

An influential figure in popular music and culture for more than six decades, Little Richard’s most celebrated work dates from the mid-1950s, when his dynamic music and charismatic showmanship laid the foundation for rock and roll. [ ]

Little Richard has been honored by many institutions, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He is the recipient of Lifetime Achievement Awards from The Recording Academy and the Rhythm and Blues Foundation. Little Richard’s “Tutti Frutti” (1955) was included in the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry in 2010 [ ]. In 2015, the National Museum of African American History and Culture honored Little Richard for his pivotal role in the formation of popular music genres and in helping to shatter the color line on the music charts changing American culture forever. (Source: Wikipedia)

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I hope more of you will start leaving comments to this post. To leave a comment, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post.

And as important, if you think this blog has any merit, please pass it on to your friends.

MY BOOK – My book can be purchased on-line from Amazon, Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million. It is also available in a ebook format.

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

http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Im-Tired-Being-Ordinary/Wm-Allen/9780990388692?id=6429711012885

09/21/15 – Spiritual Practice

September 21, 2015 Wm. Allen5 Comments

CURRENT EVENTS – Tour de Troit

What a fantastic way to spend a Saturday (9/19/15) and my compliments to the riders who braved Saturday’s weather to participate in this extraordinary event.

https://www.facebook.com/TourdeTroit

The mission of the Tour de Troit is to promote and encourage bicycling and bicycle safety through education, public events, collaboration with community and government organizations and support for non-motorized infrastructure. The Tour de Troit, the city’s largest cycling event, raises awareness of biking as a mode of transportation and publicizes the growing greenways network in the City of Detroit and all of Southeastern Michigan. Tour de Troit also produces and supports other events that promote a healthy lifestyle and city, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Bike Ride, PaczKi Run, Run du Nain Rouge and Cycle Into Spring.

http://www.tour-de-troit.org/about

SELF-HELP BOOKS – The Tao of Elvis

I know I have suggested this book in the past; but if you give this easy to read book a chance, you will find it contains much spiritual guidance.

“The Tao is great, the king is also great.”–Lao Tzu

Elvis Presley was an intensely spiritual man. Gospel was his music of choice, and his life–from innocence to addiction, from obscurity to fame, from “Hound Dog” to “Love Me Tender”–was one long quest to balance opposites. The Tao of Elvis is the first attempt to illustrate Elvis’s Taoist nature and interpret his never-ending search for purpose and meaning. Highlighting Elvis’s journey from light into dark, Jungian expert and Elvis scholar David Rosen explores and examines his life through the structure of the Tao Te Ching. In reflections on forty-two Taoist concepts–one for each year of Elvis’s life–Rosen reveals how the Tao, a mysterious force, was and is operating through America’s king. Like the Tao, Elvis is everywhere. (Source: Amazon)

MOVIE OF THE WEEK – When the Moors Ruled in Europe

If you are Amazon Prime, you can watch this film for free or if you have a Netflix DVD subscription and I was surprised that you can find it on Youtube, also for free. In today’s troubled times, it is something that you owe to yourself to look at how things could be rather than how they are. It is a well done documentary of how people thrive when they are tolerant of one another. As I mentioned in my posts from Spain this year, I have been to many of the cities and buildings mentioned in the film (Alhambra, Cordova, Seville, Toledo, etc.). I wish I have viewed this film before my trip.

Bettany Hughes traces the story of the mysterious and misunderstood Moors, the Islamic society that ruled in Spain for 700 years, but whose legacy was virtually erased from Western history. In 711 AD, a tribe of newly converted Muslims from North Africa crossed the straits of Gibraltar and invaded Spain. Known as The Moors, they went on to build a rich and powerful society. Its capital, Cordoba, was the largest and most civilised city in Europe, with hospitals, libraries and a public infrastructure. Amongst the many things that were introduced to Europe by Muslims at this time were: a huge body of classical Greek texts that had been lost to the rest of Europe for centuries (kick-starting the Renaissance); mathematics and the numbers we use today; advanced astronomy and medical practices; fine dining; the concept of romantic love; and paper. (Source: http://www.infocobuild.com/books-and-films/social-science/when-the-moors-ruled-in-europe.html )

QUOTE FOR THE WEEK – Chapter 19 of my book discusses “Change”, but the quote below will certainly do if you don’t have a chance to read that chapter in my book.

LAST WEEK POLL – Your Health Habits in Regards to Others

Since I permitted multiple voting, I have no idea how many people participated in last week’s poll, but there were 68 votes. The highest number of votes went to;

One or less alcohol drinks a day – 11 votes

I exercise more than most people – 9 votes

On average I get less than 7 hours sleep a night – 9 votes

My diet is better than most peoples – 8 votes

THIS WEEK’S POLL – Chapter 20 of my book discusses the importance of celebrating successes (yours and your friends & associates) as well as various holidays. So this week’s poll is related to the various ways one might celebrate Halloween, if they care to do so. Again, you can vote for more than one item.

SONG OF THE WEEK – Folks, here is another dance video for your viewing pleasure. I hope you enjoy it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EmnSm_d2ll4

THIS WEEK’S JOKE – In chapter 30 of my book, I talk about how important it is to avoid arguments with people. One sure way of avoiding arguments is to not talk about religion.

EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE – Lao Tzu

Little is truly known about the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu [ ], who is a guiding figure in [ ] Taoism [ ]. He is said to have been a record keeper in the court of the central Chinese Zhou Dynasty in the 6th century B.C., and an older contemporary of Confucius. This could be true, but he may also have been entirely mythical [ ].

Lao Tzu is said to have tired of life in the Zhou court as it grew increasingly morally corrupt. So he left and rode on a water buffalo to the western border of the Chinese empire. Although he was dressed as a farmer, the border official recognised him and asked him to write down his wisdom. According to this legend, what Lao Tzu wrote became the sacred text called the Tao Te Ching. After writing this piece, Lao Tzu is said to have crossed the border and disappeared from history, perhaps to become a hermit. In reality, the Tao Te Ching is likely the compilation of the works of many authors over time. But stories about Lao Tzu and the Tao Te Ching itself passed down through different Chinese philosophical schools for over two thousand years. (Source: The Philosophers’ Mail)

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I hope more of you will start leaving comments to this post. To leave a comment, just click on “Leave A Comment”, which is immediately below the title of this week’s post.

And as important, if you think this blog has any merit, please pass it on to your friends.

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