Two stories, ripped from Joystiq, that make my heart go a flutter!
and
BIOSHOCK - oh man I can not wait to play this game. Emergant game play, here we come!
Posts
5 hours ago
Monday, December 18, 2006
Install Tomorrow, and Update!
Install Tomorrow, and Update! : Stephanie has an update posted about R10 (arriving in your Journal tomorrow!). Read it so you're not left in the dust sucking the wind of old R9!
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Grinch and Overseas Holidays
Blogthings seems to think that I'm not a Grinch. I disagree.
| Nope, You're Not a Grinch |
 Although you may feel Grinch-like at times, it's just because you're worn out from the holidays. You get into the holiday spirit more than most people - and you truly enjoy celebrating with your family and friends. |
They also think I like rice pudding, the simpletons.
| You Should Spend the Holidays In |
 Denmark - where you leave a mischievous elf a bowl of rice pudding |
Blogthings, Courage, Grinch, Christmas
Weekend Assignment # 143
Scalzi wants us to talk about gifts from a youngin's perspective.
For this week's Weekend Assignment, I want you get in touch with your inner child -- and give it a gift list:
Weekend Assignment #143: Imagine you are a kid today, age 10 or under. What would you want for Christmas/Hanukkah/Seasonal Holiday of Your Preference?
I would have to go with something for my game system - maybe a PSP? :)
What can I say, I'm a dork!!!
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Coming soon?
Say it ain't so! The Mustang to have four doors and a hatchback? NO!!!!!
Stephanie, over at BamBam, has some fun stuff to share about upcoming changes in Journals. Check it out!
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Just a quiz and an update
I picked this quiz up from Lily. She's fun.
If only Blogthings knew!:
| Your Social Anxiety Level: 52% |
 You have moderate social anxiety. It's possible that you have a serious social anxiety problem. But it's also likely that you can help yourself, by getting out more and trying new, scary activities. No one's secretly judging you. So be yourself, and if you screw up, just laugh. |
Also, Joe posted an update about the newest changes to AIMPages. I'm still pushing this product - it's fun! Try it!
Tag: Courage, AIMPages, Blogthings
Consider your own calling
A few minutes ago, as I polished off a double espresso from the on-campus starbucks, I lamented my role as professor, advisor, mentor, and student. I'm tired. fifteen minutes ago, when I went to the men's room and before I bought the espresso, I didn't recognize myself in the mirror; haggard face, etched lines furrowed into my brow, five o'clock shadow emphasizing sunken cheeks and dark circles hollowing my eyes.
I graded my last paper, for this evening at least, and picked up my Magnificat. Here is tonight's reading:
1 Corinthians 1: 26-29
Consider your own calling, brothers. Not many of you were wise by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. Rather, God chose the foolish of the world to shame the wise, and God chose the weak of the world to shame the strong, and God chose the lowly and despised of the world, those who count for nothing, to reduce to nothing those who are something, so that no human being might boast before God.
My calling is in education, for the present. I am not the smartest person, nor the wisest, not the richest and certainly not the most powerful, but by accepting this calling and the work it requires I have the chance to preach the Gospel by living life - and that's good enough for me, I think.
Surrendering to my calling and embracing all its rewards and challenges opens my heart to true humility and love and strengthens my relationship with God. Mary abandoned herself to her calling completely; let us pledge to do the same this Christmas season.
Tag: Courage, calling, surrender, Christ, Christian, Magnificat
Monday, December 11, 2006
AOL Journals Comment Added Alert
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Well, when I was a kid I was a grouch on Christmas morning, and recently for the first time in my memory (as in like a year or two ago), my wife Jillian made me fall in love with Christmas morning.
Stupid Christmas Meme
Dawn did this meme and she made fun of me. Now I HAVE to do it. You see, I'm opposed to posting any entry in red and green. I'm a grinch. She wants it posted in boring old black. FINE!
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapped? What the hell are you talking about?
2. Real tree or artificial? I don't contribute to global warming by cutting down a valuable oxygen producing tree OR purchasing a tree produced using carbon based petroleum by-products. Real tree, truthfully.
3. When do you put up the tree? Whenever we get to it....this year? Maybe Christmas eve?
4. When do you take the tree down? When there aren't any needles left.
5. Do you like eggnog? Eggnog is the drink of Satan. The Prince of Darkness himself brews it in his wretched hovel.
6. Favorite gift received as a child? Castle Grayskull. Hands down.
7. Do you have a nativity scene? Yep, in the dining room/office.
8. Hardest person to buy for? Probably my father.
9. Easiest person to buy for? My wife.
10. Mail or e-mail Christmas cards? MAIL.
11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? A sweatshirt with the 'X' symbol of Malcolm X on its front. My mother thought it had something to do with the Civil War. Needless to say not only did she insult African-Americans, but also racist redneck southerners, all in one purchase. (Is it even POSSIBLE to insult a racist redneck southerner?)
12. Favorite Christmas Movie? White Christmas. Snow, snow, snow, snow, SNOW!!!!!
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? I haven't, actually.
14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? What do you think colleagues are for?
15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? Rolls
16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear.
17. Favorite Christmas song(s)? White Christmas, O, Holy Night.
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home!
19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? Duh.
20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Morning.
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Other than hating this holiday in general?
23. Favorite ornament theme or color? The kind the cats can't break when they knock over the tree.
24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? HAM!
There, are you HAPPY NOW! MERRY CHRISTMAS! BAH, HUMBUG!
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Quizzes
All of the following are from blogthings
| You Are 46% Peaceful |
 In general, you think the world's a pretty great place - and you're happy to be a part of it.Sometimes you struggle with life, but who doesn't? You are quite level headed, though you have more inner angst than you'd like. |
| You Have Your Sarcastic Moments |
 While you're not sarcastic at all times, you definitely have a cynical edge.In your opinion, not all people are annoying. Some are dead! And although you do have your genuine moments, you can't help getting your zingers in. Some people might be a little hurt by your sarcasm, but it's more likely they think you're hilarious. |
It's been a while
If anyone ever tells you that being a professor is easy, you have my permission to shoot that ignorant individual in the face.
Not really. But you can imagine the gunfire, blood-spattering associated bliss if it makes you feel better.
I've been swamped with work, grading projects, papers, websites, and let's not forget everyone's favorite responsibility - governance!
Did you know human beings spit venom? At least they can in faculty meetings.
Anyway, I've been neglecting your journals so I'll make the rounds here in a bit, but a few things I've seen already and want to pass on here:
|
New Rule: Stop giving me that pop-up ad for Classmates.com!
There's reason you don't talk to people for 25 years. Because you don't particularly like them! Besides, I already know what the captain of the football team is doing these days: mowing my lawn. New Rule: Don't eat anything that's served to you out a window unless you're a seagull. People are acting all shocked that a human finger was found in a bowl of Wendy's chili. Hey, it cost less than a dollar. What did you expect it to contain? Trout?
New Rule: Stop saying that teenage boys who have sex with their hot, blonde teachers are permanently damaged. I have a better description for these kids: lucky bastards.
New Rule: If you need to shave and you still collect baseball New Rule: Ladies, leave your eyebrows alone. New Rule: There's no such thing as flavored water. New Rule: I don't need a bigger mega M&M. New Rule (and this one is long overdue): No more bathroom attendants! New Rule: When I ask how old your toddler is, I don't need to |
I pulled that from JillAnne of Coastal Comfort
Secondly, AIMPages has a new module directory that makes it a bit easier to do advanced editing. Joe has more about it over on the AIMPage Blog
I've a number of quizzes to post in a bit, so look for them soon.
Tags: Geor+Carlin, Courage, Education
Tuesday, December 5, 2006
Reading my mind
Paul, from Aurora Walking Vacation, left a very interesting comment in my journal earlier this evening.
It was:
I know you were being facetious, but this is an example of the kind of magical thinking that allows astrologers, psychics, mediums, and the like to flourish. Of course, WebMD did not really *know* what you were thinking. How many million e-mail inboxes was that mesage sent to? And you think (however jokingly) that they were somehow reading your mind. Even though you said it tongue-in-cheek, you still thought it, and said it, and that is exactly the kind of lack of critical thinking that the entire world seems to have fallen into these days.
Sorry to mellow your trip, man.
-Paul
My commentary :): First off, Paul, you didn't mellow my trip at all, though I appreciate your trying. ;). Secondly, I think the argument you present is valid among a certain percentage of people (whether they are the minority or majority I cannot say), who fail to critically think in many situations (email forwards are my personal pet peeve example). And that, I agree, is a horrible and society-wide issue.
As an educator, I appreciate your using observable behaviors to determine process (B.F. Skinner would be proud of you!), but what your comment does not take into account is the actual cognitive process I went through - your comment (in the parts pertinent to me) is invalid because you are not critiquing my actual cognitive process.
When I received the email, I did the following:
1. Laughed at the coincidence of getting that email as I was stressing out
2. Thought that some sort of entry on my disorganized life tied to this email would allow for some tongue-in-cheek humor and perhaps a little less stress!
3. Determined that the best way to use the email would be to poke fun at the absurdity of stress and those crazy people at WebMD.
4. Wrote and posted the message, knowing full well that I never at all thought WebMD could read my mind. Let me repeat - My cognitive process decided to use the WebMD email as a tool for humor - it never once dwelled on the actual content or message WebMD intended to send in that email.
What's somewhat amusing to me is that you presumed to know my thought process: "Even though you said it tongue-in-cheek, you still thought it, and said it, and that is exactly the kind of lack of critical thinking that the entire world seems to have fallen into...." That, to me, is a lack a critical thinking. Were you working with an observable behavior? Yes. Were you informed of all the facts that went into the cognitive process behind that entry? No. Did that lead to an invalid critique? In my case, Yes.
Oh, and Paul, if you're ever in Gettysburg there is a FANTASTIC tarot card reader in town I'll take you to; she knows EVERYTHING!
;)
Stress? What Stress
So, you know, I lose a very close family member, I have to be in a stressful situation with my family, my wife ends up having foot surgery, and it's the end of the semester, so I am sitting here, in my office, as it nears 8:00 p.m., and I wonder...am I stressed?
Then, low and behold, I see this in my email inbox:
Monday, Dec. 5, 2006  |
Is Your Job Stressing You Out? Learn how to get a handle on job stress before it takes a toll on your health. |
Gotta love WebMD for knowing just what you're thinking. It's actually kind of creepy.
And so, to entertain you all, I decided to give you a snapshot of what my office looks like at the end of semester, during this time of my life, with absolutely no editing done to hide the detritus of missed deadlines and rushed planning! Enjoy!
Monday, December 4, 2006
Adia
Sarah McLachlan recently did an AOLSession. She sang one of my very favorite songs in Adia.
As Journals (for some ridiculous reason) STILL won't support i frames, you'll have to click the link to watch.
http://us.video.aol.com/video.index.adp?mode=1&pmmsid=1778451
The Centurian
Sometimes, I get a little too cocky. Maybe I'm trying to impress Jillian, or manipulate my way into someone's good praises or affections, or maybe I am simply thinking more of myself than I truly am.
Any way you look at it, we all need the courage to be like the centurion in Matthew's Gospel. He lays down all his authority, willingly, and in true humility asks Christ to simply use the power of his Word. This centurion, a Roman pagan to the Jews of the time, understood the power of Christ's word and the humility needed to show praise and thanks giving.
Here's to us having the courage every day to do the right thing.
When Jesus entered Capernaum,
a centurion approached him and appealed to him, saying,
“Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.”
He said to him, “I will come and cure him.”
The centurion said in reply,
“Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof;
only say the word and my servant will be healed.
For I too am a man subject to authority,
with soldiers subject to me.
And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes;
and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes;
and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”
When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him,
“Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith.
I say to you, many will come from the east and the west,
and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
at the banquet in the Kingdom of heaven.”
AOL Journals Comment Added Alert - Christianity
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News Alert: U.N. Ambassador Bolton Resigns
Looks like the housecleaning at the White House continues - First Rummy, then a change in course, and now in the U.N. Is Rome falling?
News Alert 9:30 a.m. ET Monday, December 4, 2006
U.N. Ambassador Bolton Resigns
President Bush has accepted U.N. Ambassador John Bolton's resignation, effective when his recess appointment expires.
For more information, visit washingtonpost.com
Quote A Day - December 4, 2006
A little message to spark up your day on a Monday morning :)
The peacock of today is the feather duster of tomorrow.
Ezra Aranoff
Tag: Courage, Ezra Aranoff, Monday
Sunday, December 3, 2006
The Saturday Six - On Sunday
Here is the latest Saturday Six from Patrick's Weekender!
1. What is the last fruit or vegetable juice you drank? How long ago did you drink it?
Hrm - I'd have to say a sip of cran-apple only a few hours ago :)
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2. Which are more likely to have on hand: fresh fruit and vegetables or fresh juice?
Probably fresh juice, unless it's clementine season.
3. Does a negative movie review make you less likely to see the movie? Does a positive review make you more likely to see it?
Yes, and no - I read one reviewer who I almost always agree with so I'm not tainted by those media hacks.
4. Take the quiz: What gender is your brain?
| Your Brain is 60% Female, 40% Male |
 Your brain is a healthy mix of male and female You are both sensitive and savvy Rational and reasonable, you tend to keep level headed But you also tend to wear your heart on your sleeve |
5. Which line of description in the results best describes you?
I wear my heart on my sleeve.
6. The <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />U.S. Mint has announced a plan to reintroduce one-dollar coins, this time with former presidents. Would you use one-dollar coins, or is paper still the way to go?
Coins! Easy, cheap, portable, not possible to forge well. I mean, REALLY folks, get witth the program!!!
Tag: Saturday Six, blogtings, Courage
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Persecution
As a Roman Catholic I am oftentimes the subject of scorn, ridicule, and insult. Over the last seven to eight years others have called me an idol worshipper, a follower of the anti-christ, a papist, and a fake Christian. I've been accused of worshipping goddesses and trying to deify ordinary men and women. I've been told that I am not saved, nor do I truly have faith in Christ in my heart. I've had Christians hand me pamphlets like this one, urging me to truly convert:
These statements make me smile, particularly when I turn to this excerpt from the Gospel according to Luke (21: 12-19)
Jesus said to the crowd: "They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. you will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives."
Bring it on, I say. Above all other things, Christians are called to love their enemies and one another. It is Christ's greatest commandment to love one another. Call me what you want, persecute me all you want, mock me all you want; I'm going to love you anyway!
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Tuesday, Tuesday
Tuesday is my favorite day of the week. It's after Monday, which is just a tough day, it's before Wednesday which can be so depressing as it's 'hump day', and it's neither Thursday or Friday, during both of which you can be itching for the weekend. It's the only day of the week that is just a day, and I like that inherent simplicity.
I am tired today and I'm looking forward to the double espresso that is in my near future. I wanted to post and say thank you for all your prayers, comments, and well-wishes. Your support is invaluable. I have a ton of work to do so that I can catch up from the weekend's insanity, so I can't stay long.
Talk soon.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Passing
Everyone, I ask your prayers for my Nana, Genevieve. Suffering from a severe infection striking her on Wednesday, she passed away quickly and quietly this past Saturday. Thankfully, the family stood by her bed in the last hours of her life and made her happy by sharing a Thanksgiving meal together. I will post again soon, I hope.
Charley
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Give thanks!
Give thanks and praise where proper!
Psalm 65
For the leader. A psalm of David. A song.
Tags: Thanksgiving Bible Courage Faith
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Did YOU pay attention during high school?
This is a fun one :)
You paid attention during 91% of high school!
85-100% You must be an autodidact, because American high schools don't get scores that high! Good show, old chap!
Do you deserve your high school diploma?
Create a Quiz
C List!
I picked this up over at Paul's. Turns out, I'm middle of the road - an average kind of guy!
Tags: c-list blogger Courage
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
The quiet and shared night
I read an entry earlier tonight that talked about the pains and struggles of insomnia. Having been one for approaching two years, stumbling about even as my medication pushes me relentlessly toward bed, I have found a quiet sense of hope in the still darkness. There are others like me, if you look out your windows, watch the streets. People who, for whatever reason, live both day and night, struggling to find sleep between.
Maybe we are driven by loneliness, the search for something, anxiety, fear, but all of us in common have the chance of sweet succor with the Nightmistress, accepting our fate and living as if we are normal.
Journal Tournament
Check out Kellen's Journal Tournament. Awesome!
JOURNAL TOURNAMENT-A three task tournament between journalers, building community and friendly competition in J-Land. The tournament is in an experimental phase...a one task 20 question Tournament Revolutionized. If you sign up, you will be asked to complete those 20 questions by the appropriate deadline, and whoever has the most points, will be declared the winner! It's a great way to get involved and see if you like the Journal Tournament without signing up for the full three tasks. Everyone who has joined the past three tournaments has had a blast! See what it's all about...http://journals.aol.com/love2sing2007/JournalTournament. Now registering through November 30!
Getting Started With Quick Edit Mode, Part 1 (Adding Basic Info)
Getting Started With Quick Edit Mode, Part 1 (Adding Basic Info) :
A few of you emailed or left comments about how to get your own AIMpage, or how to set one up. The link above is straight from the AIMPages' journal which is authored by none other than Joe of ex-MagicSmoke fame. He's got a bunch of great tutorials about AIMPages to help you get started.
While I know some of you don't like them (or their UI), I find it fun and frankly far less irritating than MySpace. If you'd like to know how to get started, check out the link above.
Tags: AIMPages, Magic Smoke, Courage
Monday, November 20, 2006
It's been a while!
Greetings and salutations!
I'm glad to be back and posting on my journal. The simple truth is, I stink at balancing work, home, and recreational activities. Teaching again has been wonderful, but the changes in stress and work load are somewhat staggering, particularly now that the old noggin doesn't work quite the way it did in my prior life as a high-school teacher.One of the elements 'cut' out of my life has been writing in my journal (this one or anyone), personal email, and surfing all the various places in my feed reader.
When I am online, I've really only done three things: work on my AIM page (which is actually kind of cool - you should make one and be my buddy!), use my IM now and again, and play Guild Wars. That last bit has become my 'not-so-real-world' escape and its terribly fun and addicting. You should play.
I will try to catch up with all of you that have been so patient. Also, keep a sharp eye; Amanda and I will soon be playing another round of twenty questions! Oh, and if you want to watch something really funny, click the play icon below; particularly if you're white and nerdy!:)
Friday, October 27, 2006
Need
It's been eight months since my spiritual director passed away. I haven't talked much about his death here, or really anywhere for that matter; I can't find words for what I feel.
With his passing my faith life suffered a K.O. I spent a good eight months wondering what changed. I played golf last weekend with a friend. We talked about Father Phil's passing. I realized how much I missed my daily conversations and consultations with Father, and how much my life changed when faith spun from the center of my being.
I know why I feel abandoned; my current pastor is not a spiritual director. This passage from Isaiah, 42:16 gives me comfort:
I will lead the blind on their journey; by paths unknown I will guide them. I will turn darkness into light before them, and make crooked ways straight. These things I do for them, and I will not forsake them.
Faith.
Oh, and get ready to rock out - turn up your speakers!
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
All the news not fit to print, 10/24/06
You better give my son playing time!
Look out below!!!!!
Mmmmmm, fetish!
and, for the dorks in you, via Download Squad: the 10 biggest computer flops of all time!
Monday Morning Photo Shoot
John wants us to show off!
Here's today's photo shoot: Your Monday Photo Shoot: Take a picture of something you've made. Pottery, cookies, a drawing or painting, a poem or a pipe cleaner stick man -- it's all good, it just has to have been made by you. Show off your creativity.
My answer: the article I wrote that was just published!
What's a meme?
Deb asked a great question: What's a meme?
To provide a little clarification, here's an entry from Wikipedia on memes, and to give it some context, an entry on meme as it relates to internet phenomena.
Yet another book meme
I picked this up from Hot Carmel Sundae:
1. One book that changed your life
Tuesdays with Morrie, but not for the reasons you might think; reading this book helped me end an unhealthy relationship more than cement one similar to the way Morrie and Mitch revisted their past together. I had a mentor in college that I admired and slaved for in ways that might make you scratch your head (have you picked up goose poop for a professor?), but when I wrote to him expressing my sincere thanks for his guidance and concern for me as an undergraduate, and my desire to continue such a close relationship with him, he never even bothered to reply. While devastated initially, I realized that his not replying helped me see how I improperly latched onto him and his scholarship.
2. One book you have read more than once
Lloyd Alexander's The High King; the simple tale of Taran, assistant pig keeper, and his journey of self-discovery. The last of the Chronicles of Pyrain books, The High King is a fabulous addition to the canon of children's literature. I first read it in middle school, have done so countless times, and actually picked it up yesterday for breakfast reading.
3. One book you would want with you on a desert island
The Bible - I'd need inspiration if my only companion was a volleyball.
4. One book that made you laugh
The Long Dark Tea Time of the Soul, by Douglas Adams. Oh, how I love Dirk Gently.
5. One book that made you cry
Les Miserables; I cried for the last 100 pages....straight. In front of my parents. In the living room. When I was 16.
6. One book you wish you had written
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis - My first experience with fantasy novels as a child, and I wanted nothing more in life than to find a world hidden in a chest of drawers or a closet. Sometimes, still, when I open a closet, I hope for a cold breeze and the glimpse of a lantern in the distance.
7. One book you wish had never been written
The DaVinci Code, and not because I'm some right-wing fanatic that thinks all readers are destined for hell, but because there are way too many people who have done way too little research, with no historical or theological training, who think elements of this book are real. It's found in the fiction section of your library for a reason, folks; it's not a true story. P.S. I actually enjoyed the story and the book, though I feel his writing style leaves a little something to be desired; it was a page turning read!
8. One book you are currently reading
A Simple Story, by S.Y. Agnon
9. One book you've been meaning to read
The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, by Anne Catherine Emmerich - I started it, but never finished. The work is a compilation of Anne Catherine Emmerich's visions about the life of the Blessed Virgin.
Now, I'm not tagging any of you, but feel free to play and link back here!
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Which sports car are you?
I got this from Paul.
I'm a Lamborghini Murcielago!
You're not subtle, but you don't want to be. Fast, loud, and dramatic, you want people to notice you, and then get out of the way. In a world full of sheep, you're a raging bull.
Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.
Friday, October 20, 2006
A bookish tag
I snagged this from Blue Skies Gentle Breezes. It's pretty fun :)
1. Grab the nearest book. If you are currently reading something, that'll be fine too.
2. Open the book to page 123.
3. Find the fifth sentence.
4. Post the text of the next 4 sentences on your Blog along with these instructions.
5. Don't you dare dig for that "cool" or "intellectual" book in your closet I know that is what you were thinking!
6. Tag 5 people
"They chased me all the way to the Ferry. I have never got over the fright - though I daresay the beasts knew their business and would not really have touched me. Pippin laughed. 'Well, it's time you made it up. Especially if you are coming back to live in Bucklad. Old Maggot is really a stout fellow - if you leave his mushrooms alone.'"
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
And now...the good news!
First - and this actually was a pleasant surprise! Alpha Delta Pi, one of our sororities on campus, named me Professor of the Week for the quality of my teaching - sweet!
The second, is that my article is DONE! Feel like reading about Teaching Reflective Practice Through Technology? Go ahead - I dare you! :)
Thursday, October 19, 2006
All the news not fit to print 10/19/06
1. Tops optional!
2. Do they have spellcheck over there?
3. Gobble Gobble! Testicles!
4. Hey Summer....do you want to play me? Not many other options left!
Exciting news coming tomorrow (at least I tink it's exciting!)
Maybe the above title is misleading; the news coming tomorrow makes me happy, and, let's face it folks, whenever that happens somebody should be throwing a parade.
Got any confetti?
Until tomorrow, here's a blogthings for you:
| Your Greed Quotient: 42% |
 You are somewhat greedy, but your greed is probably a healthy motivator. Wanting nice things is normal, as long as it doesn't take over your life. |
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
CarnivAOL is up! It's a place to find new journals and sample their best works. You can re-direct yourself by clicking this link, or following the link in my right hand sidebar.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Update on the future of journals
Yesterday I posted a brief entry redirecting you to Stephanie's journal BamBam. She had posted an 'update' for us on the future of AOLJournals. After a barrage of comments, she gave us some clarification today.
Please visit the link, leave your comments, and tell us what you think about those proposed changes.
Monday, October 16, 2006
What's the future of Journals?
Stephanie, over at BamBam has recently posted an entry about some upcoming changes to AOL Journals. While not necessarily clear on the details her post does manage to stir the pot of controversy a bit. After reading it, I encourage you to comment in her journal and let us know here....what do YOU think is the future of AOL Journals?
Monday Morning Photo Shoot
From John Scalzi: Your Monday Photo Shoot: Turn something an unexpected color.
And in that spirit I present to you:
Devil Duck!
Sunday, October 15, 2006
All the news not fit to print - 10/16/06
I dont' care what you say - she's hot!
Did she get to start the reception by looking at her groom and saying, eat me?
It's the land where dreams come true!
Man, this burger's giving me the munchies.
The greatest event in the history of sport. Yes I'm plugging the YouTube video I'm a co-star in - watch and share, and comment :)
Leave us your thoughts, opinions, or links to wacky news stories you'd like to share.
Saturday Six
I know it's technically Monday, but Patrick's Saturday Six is too good to pass up!
| Your Sloth Quotient: 52% |
 You're definitely lazier than the average person, but you're able to live a somewhat normal life. All your life needs is a little more effort and variety, and you might see that doing hard things is actually fun! |
| Your Wrath Quotient: 44% |
 Ouch! You've got a bit of a temper going on there, don't you? Just make sure to keep your revenge fantasies just that... fantasies only! |
| Your Lust Quotient: 72% |
 You are a very lustful person - and it sometimes gets the better of you! You know how to hold back, but you hardly ever do. |
| Your Envy Quotient: 57% |
 You are an envious person, but only at times. Perhaps certain situations trigger your envy. Or maybe you're especially jealous when you're feeling insecure. Instead of letting that green monster out, work on making your own life better. And then maybe people will be envious of you. |
| Your Pride Quotient: 77% |
 You're beyond proud - you think you're honorary royalty. And while you may be nice on occasion, it's usually just to get what you want. |
Question 6: Sloth - while I have a good sized lazybone, i'm not THAT bad!
P.S. Check out our video in the next entry!
The greatest moment in the history of sport
The many loyal readers of Courage are a competitive bunch. They send me emails and comments begging me to attend their feats of athletic prowess and domination. Through them I have learned what desire, ambition, and dedication can do for a hungry soul.
I am proud to say that over the years I have internalized this amazing drive to excel, becoming a member of the greatest sports team ever assembled, The Men's 2006 Trivial Pursuit Team.
There are few who can claim performing on this high level, and even fewer who have tasted success against the best in the world. I am one of those few. Our team has faced and beaten its demons and we have stared the King of Board Games, Trivial Pursuit, in the eye, never blinking. We have claimed our third straight championship against the 2006 Women's Trivial Pursuit Team.
In the world of competitive board gaming there are few who equal us, and none who exceed our combined talents and skills. Our victory in 2006 garnered such fame and fortune that we became the focus of fans, sponsors, and Hollywood.
I am proud to present to you today, the world premiere of the greatest seven minutes in cinema, Miracle II: The Story of the Men's 2006 Trivial Pursuit Team.
Watch. Listen. Learn. Share.
The greatest event ever in the history of sport is now immortalized in the greatest cinematic event of the century.
Click the 'play' button on the video, watch it, and tell me what you think of our efforts!
Crazy nuts
Things have been bonkers in the CJU&S household (that's the charley/jillian/ulysses&shiloh household)! With a flurry of bills paid, research and writing going for my paper (that has to be to the publisher on the 20th), I'm not sure where my sanity got off to...I think it's taken a bit of a vacation.
Cocky sanity - it's not like it asked me if it could take a vacation. Who does he think he is? Does he think I need him or something? Well, I got news for YOU, Mr. Sanity - I don't need you at all!
While I head off to find and flail my sanity back into my skull, enjoy these few photos; they are from the same weekend I went fishing (for the most part), and there are a few of my place of employment on a crisp fall day.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Thursday Thirteen
The Thursday Thirteen is a meme hosted over at Laura's. You simply list thirteen items of your choice, link to her site, and go visit other meme players!
Today, I'm listing thirteen books on my shelf at work:
1. Exceptional children, An Introduction to Special Education
2. Philosophical and Ideological Perspectives on Education
3. Student Cultural Diversity; Understanding and Meeting the Challenge
4. Educational Psychology: Developing Learners
5. The Little Disturbances of Man
6. Social Foundations for Becoming a Teacher
7. Integrated Curriculum
8. If this is Social Studies, Why isn't it Boring?"
9. Foundations of American Education
10. Society and Education
11. To Become a Teacher
12. Strunk and White: The Elements of Style
13. The Courage to be Catholic
Enjoy the day!
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Line Rider
This is a video of a game I found a few days ago - I'd been tinkering with it, but this guy, he put some SERIOUS effort into it!
A few housecleaning notes - in the left hand pane you will see a series of journals - if you want to appear here, please let me know - I ask only a return link on your site. If you are already on the list you must email me and tell me you want to stay.
Due to my own issues and problems, the unofficial hiatus of the prayer community is now official. I'm taking a three month sabbatical from the prayer community - it will return in time for the new year. All relevent links will be left in the window to the right, though their location will change.
There are several useful tools in the right hand tool bar - AIMPage profile, Technorati Profile, a Newsgator subscription button, as well as our frappr map community and our map of just where courage readers hail from. You'll also see a ping-o-matic link as well - a great site for pinging the major blogrolls that you've updated.
~~~~
Drooping eyes fall on fat sticky fingers
and find nothing of any real worth but for writing's sake.
Beneath them tewenty empty lines taunt me to fill them
with whatever drivel and pointless commentary I might muster.
An empty page is a lonely, hateful beast
whose piercing accusations bring anger, doubt, and
impatience to fruition.
Screw them. I am worth more than nothing.
How do you drive?
I snagged this from Carly, over at Ellipses...Suddenly Carly. She's a great friend and a good person - check out her journal.
| Your Driving Is is: 75% Male, 25% Female |
According to studies, you generally drive like a typical male.You're confident in your driving skills, and hardly any situation gets the better of you. And while you may have a few tickets under your belt, you're still a very good driver. |
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Space-saver
space saving post - two links for later reference:
http://journals.aol.com/teeisme57/OhMyWord/entries/2006/10/08/my-life.-my-blog./1913
http://journals.aol.ca/plittle/AuroraWalkingVacation/entries/2116
Antarctica
A aquaintance of mine is working in antarctica and is keeping a blog. I thought some of you might enjoy reading a bit about his experiences and life on the southernmost continent.
Monday, October 9, 2006
Fishing and fun
J and I spent the weekend in MD with some friends. We had a great time, and I wanted to show off a few of the photographs I snagged while fishing on Saturday. While it was cold, wet, and rainy I still had a great time.
Saturday, October 7, 2006
All the news not fit to print
1. Stealing greenbacks?
2. Now I know just where you got that pencil sharpener you gave me for my birthday
3. Blackboards + nails = hell
4. Do like it backwards?
Thursday, October 5, 2006
Thursday Thirteen, 10/5/06
The Thursday Thirteen is a meme hosted over at Laura's. You simply list thirteen items of your choice, link to her site, and go visit other meme players!
Thirteen things that have made me happy this week:
1. Having an article approved for publication
2. Being approved to present at a conference in Hawaii
3. Having a really good conversation last night with Jillian
4. Looking forward to my visit with H & J this weekend
5. Receiving a stellar observation from a colleague on Monday
6. Leveling up in Guild Wars
7. Really starting to Journal again
8. Starting up group again with Dave
9. Reading Naked, by David Sidaris
10. Reading The Little Disturbances of Man, by Grace Pauley
11. Getting a phone call from my Nana
12. Looking at my brother's picture
13. Eating waffle fries
Tag: Thursday Thirteen
Wednesday, October 4, 2006
All the news not fit to print
1. He's hot, but is he THIS hot?
2. You think you matter? Try being dead for five years!
3. Think your marriage is a joke? Think again!
4. WANTED!: Your jugs!
5. Cat fight!
Tuesday, October 3, 2006
inspiration
I poured through a good chunk of scripture today, trying to both get caught up in my reading and turn what devolved into a task back into a habit. So many passages on God's redemption, love, and our great gift. Nothing spoke to me, but instead I feel that we can't lose site of the many small lessons that scripture plays in our life. To open our hearts to God allows us to read the Bible and find in it the instruction manual of life. We need not always find some grand passage with some deep spiritual resolution.
Sometimes one minute to the next is hard enough, and God understands that. He's commitment to us can be seen in the so many ways he cares for the little things - the little things that make up our soul.
~~
And because we haven't seen her in a while:
Tag: Angelina Jolie, little things
Sunday, October 1, 2006
Cut if off
From Mark:
Whoever causes any of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire. And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life crippled than with two feet be thrown into Gehenna. And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. Better for you to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna, where 'their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.'
Why is Christ telling me to punish myself? Am I unworthy? Irreverent? Unneeded? I don't believe that. I refuse to believe that. This is a story about inside and outside, those who die to self and those who indulge. This is a message of love and peace, of patience and fidelity, of sacrifice and determination. I am already made worthy by Christ's death and resurrection - the gates of Heaven have been opened, the trappings of death cast off and replaced with the resplendent robes of eternal life.
I don't have to cut off my hands or pluck out my eyes, but I have to choose love. I have to choose peace and sacrifice. I have to die to self, to the selfish and worldly instincts that drive me from my brothers and sisters and leave me in an island of loneliness and death. The great millstone around our necks is a choice, and one made available to us out of love, not anger.
I choose life, and love, and faith.
~~
It's been a crazy weekend here in TouristTown, USA. After watching 3/4 of Monk, season two, J and I took care of errands around the house and in town. I love living in the center of town. While the constant sounds of sirens, motorcycles and thundering big-rigs leaves something to be desired, I adore waking up on a Saturday morning, walking half a block to the local farmer's market on the square, buying fresh bread and produce, getting a hot cup of coffee at the local shop, stopping by the library, and then meandering home to enjoy the fresh homemade whoopee pies we got just a short while ago.
Militant Suburbia? City Living? I'll take a small town any day of the week.
Friday, September 29, 2006
The Centurion
No one who lights a lamp conceals it with a vessel or sets it under a bed; rather, he places it on a lampstand so that those who enter may see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secrecy that will not be known and come to light. Take care, then, how you hear. To anyone who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he seems to have will be taken away.
I was talking with a close friend about a series of recent setbacks...stubborn outbursts really, that both Jillian and have embraced throughout the summer. He reminded me of the Centurian whose faith was so great, yet so humble, that Christ testifies as to this gentile's belief.
Well, I've lacked that humility, and it's time to get some. Time to tackle the big issues and uncover my light. There is no sense having this candle burn within me if I simply smother it slowly.
As the weekend draws near, let's raise our hearts and minds to Christ and ask him to send the Spirit onto and into us, so that what we do these next few days will reverberate in the halls of heaven.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
How Much is Your Blog Worth - September, 2006
In Courage tradition, we step back and take a look at this blog's worth at the end of every month. Started in October, 2005, we have been fairly faithful in measuring Courage's growth and decline (using the same formula applied in the AOL-Weblogs, Inc. deal). As of today, Courage is worth:
My blog is worth $46,856.82.
How much is your blog worth?
And, because I'm a dork, let's take a look at the last several months in graph form:
Now, if that doesn't make me dorky, I'm not sure what will :)
Thursday Thirteen & CarnivAOL
Here's today's Thursday Thirteen (click the link to visit Laura, who hosts the TT):
Thirteen of my favorite video games of all time:
1. Baldur's Gate II (including Throne of Bhaal)
2. Super Mario Brothers 3
3. Counterstrike
4. Civilization II
5. Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
6. Baldur's Gate (including Tales of the Sword Coast)
7. Half-life
8. Command & Conquer: Red Alert
9. Smurfs (for Coleco Vision)
10. Hero's Quest I: A Quest for Glory
~~
Submissions are being accepted for the next edition of CarnivAOL. Visit the link and check it out!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Wings
You know, I love hot wings.
Love them.
Yet, when it's past midnight and I'm afraid to fall asleep because my bottom half is wracking itself with spasms and the sharp pains of gassy bliss, I feel somewhat betrayed by my passion.
I eat them, I cherish them, I lick my fingers clean, but here they are betraying me to the porcelain god and leaving a ring on my butt. I drink water, hoping it will dilute this raging beast in my bowels. No luck.
While I've been gone for a week it's been for good reason (I suppose). My teaching load is heavy this semester and I admit to being quite unused to self-imposed deadlines. Accordingly, when I have stacks of papers to grade and only so many hours to run my eyes over the bounty produced by my students, I'm afraid I let my journal gather some dust.
Other than work, life seems better than it has been.
When I'm not on the toilet.
Been crazy nuts!
Hi everyone!
Things here at the ranch have been insane. I'm still here, and will post a bit more later tonight. For now, even though I drive a Mustang:
| You Should Drive a Lamborghini |
 A true daredevil, you're always in search of a new rush. Clearly, you're a total speed demon... just don't get caught! |
Thursday, September 21, 2006
The Thursday Thirteen, and some blogthings
The Thursday Thirteen, hosted by Laura of Adventures in Juggling, is a meme that highlights thirteen items of your choice. Today, I'm going with thirteen random things in my office:
1. photograph of my brother
2. a huge dictionary
3. a putter
4. a painting of Abraham Lincoln
5. a beer stein
6. stinky sneakers
7. Blis lip balm
8. The Little Disturbances of Man, by Grace Paley
9. lots of magnets
10. a purple binder clip
11. a chess set
12. a big empty box
13. a hand-blown glass paperweight.
Here are a few blogthings:
| You Have Good Karma |
 In general, you like to do the right thing when it comes to others. Your caring personality really shines through. Sure, you have your moments of weakness - and occasionally act out. But, all in all, you're karma is good... even with those few dark spots. |
| You Are 20% Capitalist, 80% Socialist |
 You see a lot of injustice in the world, and you'd like to see it fixed. As far as you're concerned, all the wrong people have the power. You're strongly in favor of the redistribution of wealth - and more protection for the average person. |
tag: blogthings, Thursday Thirteen
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Camping Trip '06
Just some of the shots we snagged on our camping trip earlier in the month. I think I'm really starting to like fishing!
Not one, but many
I have not been as alone as I thought these past few months. So many prayers and well-wishers, so much love and devotion, I realize that I am nothing more than a product of the love and kindness others have for me and I for them. It reminds me of this passage from Paul's first letter to the Corinthians:
Brothers and Sisters: As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one Body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit.
Your indomitable spirit has fueled me - you are all saints!
What Chess Piece are You?
| The Black King You scored 2 Power-Finesse, 3 Leader-Follower, 1 Unique-Ordinary, and 1 Offense-Defense! |
| You are comfortable letting a situation evolve, reacting to it, and exploiting the weakness of your enemy when he over-reaches. Your followers are loyal to you, and would gladly fall upon the sword of an advancing rook or queen for you, but you would rather use them to sneak in and suprise the enemy. You are content to let others do your dirty work, even your Queen. |
 |
My test tracked 4 variables How you compared to other people your age and gender:
|
| Link: The What Chess Piece Are You Test |
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