Finally...Ken Follett has come out with a sequel to his wonderful historical novel "Pillars of the Earth". I have read "Pillars.." 3 times, now going on 4. (had to re-read it before I started "World Without End".
I hope Follett's new book holds up to the task of being as enthralling as his first attempt at following his passion. He is best known for espionage novels such as "Eye of the Needle" and "Key to Rebecca". But, "Pillars of the Earth" was his creation back in 1989 after years of starting and stopping. He developed a passion for visiting Medieval cathedrals and learning about their histories. This is what inspired his journey, one fraught with being advised against doing this, because it wasn't his pigeon holed expectation. The novel was not a big hit at the time, but word of mouth propelled this book to be a constant seller to this day.
I just began to read "Pillars.." and find myself drawn back into what makes it a page turner. It grabs you helplessly from about page 20 through to the end. I'm sure I have some sleepless night ahead of me. Then....I will begin the sequel!!
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
Great Loss
As of 11:18am I just found out that Dan Fogelberg died yesterday at his home in Maine of Cancer at the age of 56. I guess it's a bit of dejavu that I was stuck in Portland, Maine yesterday in horrible weather that canceled a concert I was to perform in and left my wife and I in a hotel a day longer than usual. For some odd reason I had a horrible day yesterday and was completely out of sorts. I'm sure this was coincidental, but....
I have to say Dan F. was influential in a large part of my young life. His music, especially lyrics, hit such a chord with me growing up. I own every album, have sang along with every song, and I have used his gift to council my grieve and pain for a very large part of my life. I saw him perform live in the very early 90's, which was an amazing treat. His best music was never heard by the masses and boy...what you have missed. His first album came out in 1972 "Home Free" and is still not dated in my view. His songs span time never seeming dated. His genre was pop and would now be considered Country. Listen to "The River" which is probably my favorite song of his. This song is on the first album "Home Free". Listen to his next album "Souvenirs" and the next "Captured Angel". My favorite album would have to be "Netherlands" from 1977. These albums all came out before any hits really got notice, yet I consider this his finest work.
I don't know how else to thank him and morn his passing except with tears and gratitude. He was an environmentalist before there was a name for it as was John Denver, another musical icon who influenced my ability to be alone and find sanctuary in our undeveloped grazing areas across this country. They both loved the wild and beautiful American landscape more than we will ever appreciate.
We will miss you Dan! Cheers!
The River
I was born by a river
Rolling past a town
Given no direction
Just told to keep my head down.
As I took my position
A man fired a gun
I was so steeped in tradition
That I could not run.
I was raised by a river
Weaned upon the sky
And in the mirror of the waters
I saw myself learn to cry.
As my tears hit the surface
I saw what had been done.
I gave feet to my freedom
And I did run.
Someday later
I saw the writing in the dust
It told me how I should travel
It told me who I was.
I ran far from the river
Far as I could see
And as the sun hit my shoulders
I felt it burning me.
How I longed for the waters
As the fire raged
How I longed for the river
As I aged.
I will die by a river
As it rolls away
Bury me in the nighttime
Do not waste the day.
\
High above the waters
That roll on to the sea.
All the angels in heaven will
Laugh at me.
They will laugh at me.
My life was naught but a river
Rolling through my brain
Made of so many teardrops
Made of so much pain.
I have to say Dan F. was influential in a large part of my young life. His music, especially lyrics, hit such a chord with me growing up. I own every album, have sang along with every song, and I have used his gift to council my grieve and pain for a very large part of my life. I saw him perform live in the very early 90's, which was an amazing treat. His best music was never heard by the masses and boy...what you have missed. His first album came out in 1972 "Home Free" and is still not dated in my view. His songs span time never seeming dated. His genre was pop and would now be considered Country. Listen to "The River" which is probably my favorite song of his. This song is on the first album "Home Free". Listen to his next album "Souvenirs" and the next "Captured Angel". My favorite album would have to be "Netherlands" from 1977. These albums all came out before any hits really got notice, yet I consider this his finest work.
I don't know how else to thank him and morn his passing except with tears and gratitude. He was an environmentalist before there was a name for it as was John Denver, another musical icon who influenced my ability to be alone and find sanctuary in our undeveloped grazing areas across this country. They both loved the wild and beautiful American landscape more than we will ever appreciate.
We will miss you Dan! Cheers!
The River
I was born by a river
Rolling past a town
Given no direction
Just told to keep my head down.
As I took my position
A man fired a gun
I was so steeped in tradition
That I could not run.
I was raised by a river
Weaned upon the sky
And in the mirror of the waters
I saw myself learn to cry.
As my tears hit the surface
I saw what had been done.
I gave feet to my freedom
And I did run.
Someday later
I saw the writing in the dust
It told me how I should travel
It told me who I was.
I ran far from the river
Far as I could see
And as the sun hit my shoulders
I felt it burning me.
How I longed for the waters
As the fire raged
How I longed for the river
As I aged.
I will die by a river
As it rolls away
Bury me in the nighttime
Do not waste the day.
\
High above the waters
That roll on to the sea.
All the angels in heaven will
Laugh at me.
They will laugh at me.
My life was naught but a river
Rolling through my brain
Made of so many teardrops
Made of so much pain.
Friday, December 14, 2007
More money for the top
Non profit societies need to be scrutinized more carefully. Mr. Dick Hillenbrand has been keeping us genealogy buffs up to date on the practices of the President and trustees of the New York Genealogical Society. Article link http://ny-genes.blogspot.com/2007/09/nyg-society-will-be-saying-goodbye-to.html
Unfortunately, until there is a moral cry from the masses of society these types of things will only continue. CEO's and COO's etc... are raping the landscape of America with outrageous salaries and unsavory practices of downsizing everyone else's salaries and benefits while collecting hugh paycheck's and bonuses.
I'm open for suggestions on how we struggling Americans can save our Country from this.
No one seems to like my suggestion of upper management only making a certain percentage above the lowest paid employee on staff. (This meaning part time employees as well, cause I know the new corporate motto of part time means no benefits to supply).
Call me crazy!!
Unfortunately, until there is a moral cry from the masses of society these types of things will only continue. CEO's and COO's etc... are raping the landscape of America with outrageous salaries and unsavory practices of downsizing everyone else's salaries and benefits while collecting hugh paycheck's and bonuses.
I'm open for suggestions on how we struggling Americans can save our Country from this.
No one seems to like my suggestion of upper management only making a certain percentage above the lowest paid employee on staff. (This meaning part time employees as well, cause I know the new corporate motto of part time means no benefits to supply).
Call me crazy!!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
The man who gives up hope
When looking back on the useless time spent in high school, I think of my most proud moment. I marched in (Marching Band) President Jimmy Carter's inaguration in Washington, D. C.
My family made fun of him. I adored him. Being a Southerner myself, Carter represented what a good Southern Man could be. To this day he has never let me down and continues to make that little moment in my othewise useless high school experience feel monumental.
Thank you Mr. Carter for being a role model for this man to strive towards. Indeed, our greatest President!
http://www.paramuspost.com/article.php/20071111201437577
My family made fun of him. I adored him. Being a Southerner myself, Carter represented what a good Southern Man could be. To this day he has never let me down and continues to make that little moment in my othewise useless high school experience feel monumental.
Thank you Mr. Carter for being a role model for this man to strive towards. Indeed, our greatest President!
http://www.paramuspost.com/article.php/20071111201437577
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Co-existence
Yeah, it's been a while.... My life keeps changing mostly for the good. But, today was a challenge.
How do you handle having an exciting day while your wife is having a shitty day?
Seems like my excitement just drains the life out of her. I, then, take it personally, which I have yet to grow thicker skin. She in turn states that it then all becomes about "me". She says I don't listen, yet I feel like I do.
I do the wrong thing, when she says I just don't get it, and leave the room. We love each other, yet I can't seem to communicate properly. What is it that I don't understand? What can I do that is right and not always "wrong"? Why do I get soooo frustrated?
I absolutely hate confrontation. Yet, hear I am pissing off the one person who's opinion means the world to me.
Ok...there are just too many "I's" in this post. How do I make this "not" about me, you selfish bastard!
How do you handle having an exciting day while your wife is having a shitty day?
Seems like my excitement just drains the life out of her. I, then, take it personally, which I have yet to grow thicker skin. She in turn states that it then all becomes about "me". She says I don't listen, yet I feel like I do.
I do the wrong thing, when she says I just don't get it, and leave the room. We love each other, yet I can't seem to communicate properly. What is it that I don't understand? What can I do that is right and not always "wrong"? Why do I get soooo frustrated?
I absolutely hate confrontation. Yet, hear I am pissing off the one person who's opinion means the world to me.
Ok...there are just too many "I's" in this post. How do I make this "not" about me, you selfish bastard!
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Keeping up with the Jones
Well...I've become totally involved in domestic life (I highly recommend it with the right match. Not an easy task!). Going on and on about the wonders of life with Beau will not be what I subject the multitudes of my many blog readers:-)
For the moment I will talk about how I have NO desire to ever drive a car ever again in my lifetime. I'm a good driver, but damn if I can't just drive down the road and mind my own business. It's amazing how many people just can't sit still for 2 seconds. Cell phones, rearranging whatever papers and garbage is in the front seat, reading the paper, applying makeup, the list is endless. Everything but staying within the border lines.
I've been cut off at least once a day for a very long time now. Granted...I drive an ungodly amount of time every day. Hopefully that will change soon....please...please...God!
Next on the agenda.....Health care costs in Massachusetts are being reported to go up (yet again) by 8 to 16%, depending on your plan and provider. Great! Not only has this state made it mandatory to BUY health care, but it's going to cost even more in a state that has one of the highest costs.
We are in deep do-do in this country and nobody seems to notice the odor.
For the moment I will talk about how I have NO desire to ever drive a car ever again in my lifetime. I'm a good driver, but damn if I can't just drive down the road and mind my own business. It's amazing how many people just can't sit still for 2 seconds. Cell phones, rearranging whatever papers and garbage is in the front seat, reading the paper, applying makeup, the list is endless. Everything but staying within the border lines.
I've been cut off at least once a day for a very long time now. Granted...I drive an ungodly amount of time every day. Hopefully that will change soon....please...please...God!
Next on the agenda.....Health care costs in Massachusetts are being reported to go up (yet again) by 8 to 16%, depending on your plan and provider. Great! Not only has this state made it mandatory to BUY health care, but it's going to cost even more in a state that has one of the highest costs.
We are in deep do-do in this country and nobody seems to notice the odor.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Health Care Dilemma
It is interesting to find that 20% of Americans are paid well enough in their jobs to hold 50% of all of the income in this country. The rest of us share what's left. I heard this on the CBS Morning show.
I believe there has not been a time, in my lifetime, where there has been such a large gap in the wealth and poor. I am a highly educated smart individual who hasn't been able to find steady work in my chosen profession for many years. It's always been that way in the Arts, but there has never been a time in my life where I find myself constantly worried about affording health care for me, my wife, and possible future children.
Right now I pay about $150 a month thru my employer (at a job I absolutely hate) for just myself. I can't sign up my wife because, unknown to me via not reading the fine print in my policy rules, you have to do so within 30 days of marrying. I missed that window, but you know what I couldn't afford the additional cost, close to $400 a month. THIS is thru my employer. God forbid I would have to pay for the whole thing myself.
Now...this wonderful health care plan I have thru my employer has a $4000 deductible if I ever need ANY type of hospitalization. If I had the family plan which is for anyone from 2 people (husband and wife) and how ever many children we have, which is none right now and may always be none because of costs, this deductible changes to $8000.
I PAY for this crap!!!! I can't drop this horrible, horrible job with a 60 mile each way commute because I have healthcare. Now, it will even be harder as the state I live in now requires me to pay for healthcare or suffer a fine.
I'm hoping things will change for me soon. I'm working hard trying to develop my own business so I can finally do something that I somewhat like to do.
I'm looking forward to seeing Michael Moore's movie "Sicko". I hope it has a dramatic effect on the attention this issue will get. It is a broken, broken system and has been for some time. Nothing has changed in way too long.
I believe there has not been a time, in my lifetime, where there has been such a large gap in the wealth and poor. I am a highly educated smart individual who hasn't been able to find steady work in my chosen profession for many years. It's always been that way in the Arts, but there has never been a time in my life where I find myself constantly worried about affording health care for me, my wife, and possible future children.
Right now I pay about $150 a month thru my employer (at a job I absolutely hate) for just myself. I can't sign up my wife because, unknown to me via not reading the fine print in my policy rules, you have to do so within 30 days of marrying. I missed that window, but you know what I couldn't afford the additional cost, close to $400 a month. THIS is thru my employer. God forbid I would have to pay for the whole thing myself.
Now...this wonderful health care plan I have thru my employer has a $4000 deductible if I ever need ANY type of hospitalization. If I had the family plan which is for anyone from 2 people (husband and wife) and how ever many children we have, which is none right now and may always be none because of costs, this deductible changes to $8000.
I PAY for this crap!!!! I can't drop this horrible, horrible job with a 60 mile each way commute because I have healthcare. Now, it will even be harder as the state I live in now requires me to pay for healthcare or suffer a fine.
I'm hoping things will change for me soon. I'm working hard trying to develop my own business so I can finally do something that I somewhat like to do.
I'm looking forward to seeing Michael Moore's movie "Sicko". I hope it has a dramatic effect on the attention this issue will get. It is a broken, broken system and has been for some time. Nothing has changed in way too long.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
The amazing life of a dog
Another example of what dogs CAN do when loved.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070508/od_afp/nzealandanimalsoffbeat;_ylt=AibEvk2dWFJF5B0cJz.rHBsDW7oF
http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070508/od_afp/nzealandanimalsoffbeat;_ylt=AibEvk2dWFJF5B0cJz.rHBsDW7oF
Why I am drawn to read Christopher Hitchens
Unfortunately I don't have the time to wax and wane on the reasons I am drawn to the work of Christopher Hitchens. Let's suffice it to say, he speaks about issues that I have a passion and definite opinion on. Do I agree with him? Well...sometimes yes, sometimes no. BUT, what I do like about the man that ruffles SOOO many feathers, is that he speaks his mind without thinking about pleasing anyone. I respect that. His views on some things are, quiet frankly, no where near my own. Which brings me to a point of contention. Why do we only have to read and admire those who agree with our points of view?
To make this short, Hitchens seems to come out with books on the very things that tweak my interest and strong feelings. Most recently "organized religion" http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/13/books/chapters/0513-1st-hitc.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1
An atheist I am not, but those who know me hear often of my feelings on the destructive use of "organized religion". Unfortunately, it's not fair to group all religion together, but I have found such few exceptions in all forms of religious beliefs to not feel TOO guilty about the generalization.
In short, I read Hitchens (and will probably try to buy his new book GASP!) because he challenges me to dig deeper into my own views, and sometimes I find myself agreeing with him.
To make this short, Hitchens seems to come out with books on the very things that tweak my interest and strong feelings. Most recently "organized religion" http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/13/books/chapters/0513-1st-hitc.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1
An atheist I am not, but those who know me hear often of my feelings on the destructive use of "organized religion". Unfortunately, it's not fair to group all religion together, but I have found such few exceptions in all forms of religious beliefs to not feel TOO guilty about the generalization.
In short, I read Hitchens (and will probably try to buy his new book GASP!) because he challenges me to dig deeper into my own views, and sometimes I find myself agreeing with him.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Why has it taken me so long to get back to my Gin?
Again...my favorite drink is a dirty gin martini on the rocks with Bombay Sapphire. According to this NY Times review my Sapphire didn't make the top pick, but I have yet to try any other brands so far. Maybe when I win the lottery I'll try all the Gin varieties just to do my own comparison. http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/02/dining/02wine.html?_r=1&ei=5090&oref=slogin
It's quite satisfying to see Gin win in the martini debate, i.e. which is REALLY a martini, gin or vodka.
I mixed a beautiful one last night....awh.....
It's quite satisfying to see Gin win in the martini debate, i.e. which is REALLY a martini, gin or vodka.
I mixed a beautiful one last night....awh.....
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Hope is in the air!
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/04/22/wgore22.xml
Will Gore run for President in 2008? Please!!
Will Gore run for President in 2008? Please!!
Tired and disappointed
I usually try to stay out of the political fray of things via my blog, but I just feel incredibly angry and despondent over the state of our country's leadership today. My God!! Ruth Ginsburg finds herself on the heals of retirement having to go back 20 years to defend woman's rights. How frustrated she must be.
Republican representatives that have their heads up their asses on global warming who actually think they are representing the people's desires.
I have never felt more interest in getting the hell out of America...but, you know what?? This is MY country too. This country has been held hostage by out of touch human beings that control and manipulate what we hear and what we see. How many pictures of the destruction of Iraq have you seen lately? We are completely desensitized from the reality of the horrid destruction we have created in Iraq. All based in the fear propaganda of the Bush administration. Weapons of Mass Destruction...none to be found. Restructure of a new democratic Iraq...never close to being realized. Billions and Billions of dollars spent with no results. Thousands of American and Iraqi lives lost for what. And STILL an ego centric man too proud to admit his gross error by doing everything possible to bring brave, young, soldiers home. NO MORE needless deaths should be happening.
The deaths at Virginia Tech were horrible beyond belief...yet, how many lives were lost in Iraq on that same day??? Our media is so far removed from reporting reality I can't stomach watching TV or listening to the radio any more. No one seems to be held accountable for their actions anymore. The media has dissected every possible person that can be held reasonable for the massacre at Virginia Tech. The teachers, the health care providers, the sellers of guns. I would just like to see the same intense scrutiny of our leaders responsibility of the deaths in Iraq.
Global warming is no longer a discussion in the progressive European countries. They are past debating whether it is actually happening and focusing on finding solutions. Let me ask this question: What do we have to loose by focusing on saving the environment??? I really, really, really hope scientist are all wrong on Global Warming. Even if they are, how does saving the planets Eco system become a bad thing to work on repairing??? I am astonished at representatives of our country, such as Karl Rove, who can state "I work for the American people" http://www.comcast.net/entertainment/index.jsp?cat=ENTERTAINMENT&fn=/2007/04/22/643434.html&cvqh=itn_crow
when clearly they don't listen to scientific proof http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A26065-2004Dec25.html What American people is he talking about? I've not meet one.
I would love to hear about an extensive survey on the American peoples views, i.e. "yes" or "no" on do you believe global warming is a reality. Of course all surveys can be tainted by the survey givers motives, but maybe several different companies could produce such and present it to the nay sayers of our governmental body and say "here is the American peoples wishes, get to work on doing what you were voted in to do".
Enough of my rant. Back to reality..........
Republican representatives that have their heads up their asses on global warming who actually think they are representing the people's desires.
I have never felt more interest in getting the hell out of America...but, you know what?? This is MY country too. This country has been held hostage by out of touch human beings that control and manipulate what we hear and what we see. How many pictures of the destruction of Iraq have you seen lately? We are completely desensitized from the reality of the horrid destruction we have created in Iraq. All based in the fear propaganda of the Bush administration. Weapons of Mass Destruction...none to be found. Restructure of a new democratic Iraq...never close to being realized. Billions and Billions of dollars spent with no results. Thousands of American and Iraqi lives lost for what. And STILL an ego centric man too proud to admit his gross error by doing everything possible to bring brave, young, soldiers home. NO MORE needless deaths should be happening.
The deaths at Virginia Tech were horrible beyond belief...yet, how many lives were lost in Iraq on that same day??? Our media is so far removed from reporting reality I can't stomach watching TV or listening to the radio any more. No one seems to be held accountable for their actions anymore. The media has dissected every possible person that can be held reasonable for the massacre at Virginia Tech. The teachers, the health care providers, the sellers of guns. I would just like to see the same intense scrutiny of our leaders responsibility of the deaths in Iraq.
Global warming is no longer a discussion in the progressive European countries. They are past debating whether it is actually happening and focusing on finding solutions. Let me ask this question: What do we have to loose by focusing on saving the environment??? I really, really, really hope scientist are all wrong on Global Warming. Even if they are, how does saving the planets Eco system become a bad thing to work on repairing??? I am astonished at representatives of our country, such as Karl Rove, who can state "I work for the American people" http://www.comcast.net/entertainment/index.jsp?cat=ENTERTAINMENT&fn=/2007/04/22/643434.html&cvqh=itn_crow
when clearly they don't listen to scientific proof http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A26065-2004Dec25.html What American people is he talking about? I've not meet one.
I would love to hear about an extensive survey on the American peoples views, i.e. "yes" or "no" on do you believe global warming is a reality. Of course all surveys can be tainted by the survey givers motives, but maybe several different companies could produce such and present it to the nay sayers of our governmental body and say "here is the American peoples wishes, get to work on doing what you were voted in to do".
Enough of my rant. Back to reality..........
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Navigating through rough terrain
http://www.nibiruancouncil.com/html/navigatingemotionalclearing_ar.html
I could not possibly be happier in my personal life. Career...well, that's a different story. As a musician I have struggled throughout my career to find a home for my expressive musical style and tastes. Alas...without success. I have compromised only to find myself unsuccessful and uncomfortable being and doing something that was just not me.
Recently I have gone back to private teaching and I have found it much more rewarding than I did 10 years ago. Maybe it's because I'm much better at it now and much more comfortable in my own skin.
With anxiety and distractablilty issues I find myself having a hard time accessing a fruitful career. I'm currently in flux trying to mold several different options together to form enough income to call it a "living". We won't even begin to talk about affording health care if I end up as my own employer!!
So...I guess this is the beginning of the journey. May the terrain be gentle with me.
I could not possibly be happier in my personal life. Career...well, that's a different story. As a musician I have struggled throughout my career to find a home for my expressive musical style and tastes. Alas...without success. I have compromised only to find myself unsuccessful and uncomfortable being and doing something that was just not me.
Recently I have gone back to private teaching and I have found it much more rewarding than I did 10 years ago. Maybe it's because I'm much better at it now and much more comfortable in my own skin.
With anxiety and distractablilty issues I find myself having a hard time accessing a fruitful career. I'm currently in flux trying to mold several different options together to form enough income to call it a "living". We won't even begin to talk about affording health care if I end up as my own employer!!
So...I guess this is the beginning of the journey. May the terrain be gentle with me.
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