Stream of Consciousness Saturday – Prompt “Cook”

December 24, 2016December 24, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 38 Comments

SOCS

It is Saturday and time for Stream of Consciousness. This week’s prompt is “cook.” Since it is also Christmas Eve, I think a Christmas story would be in order. Linda Hill says we can do whatever we want, so I think I have the portfolio. If you would like to read up and join the fun, go to Linda’s post. Here is the link.

The Friday Reminder and Prompt for #SoCS Dec. 24/16

There is a lot of rumors going around that a new king of kings is to make an appearance in the village. Such nonsense is of no concern to Josiah. There is bread to bake and cakes to make. There is no time to be listening to the tounges wagging in the street. Josiah has the distinction of being the village cook and takes his responsibility seriously. Soon the people will descend upon his shop to buy this day’s labor.

The work starts early and Josiah must hurry to give the dough time to rise and to mix the batter until it is smooth. Sleeping late is a luxury for the idle rich and Josiah can barely make ends meet. He feels fortunate that he can keep a small portion of the bread for himself which is set aside for the time when he goes home for the day.

This day has been especially busy since there are new people in the village. There was a decree sent out by Caesar Augustus that all the people should be taxed. The decree further stated that each person should return to the land of their birth to be counted and then taxed. So many have come to his village that Josiah has been forced to make more and more bread and cake each day. Even so, he has had to turn away customers. Josiah does not take comfort in the increased business since the Miller charges him more and more each day for the flower. The evil man laughed and told him to go somewhere else if he didn’t like the price. There is nowhere else for Josiah to go. He must continue to work harder

So many have come to his village that Josiah has been forced to make more and more bread and cake each day. Even so, he has had to turn away customers. He does not take comfort in the increased business since the miller charges him more and more each day for the flower. The evil man laughed and told him to go somewhere else if he didn’t like the price. There is nowhere else for Josiah to go. He must continue to work harder and make less money for his trouble. Still, he feels fortunate that he is able to save a small portion for himself.

The business day finally ends and Josiah locks his shop and begins his long walk home. He decides to take a shorter way home past the stables that are behind the Inn. Nearing the stables Josiah encounters a light that makes daylight out of the dark. He stops and is struck with the wonder before him. There are animals clustered around a manager and at first Josiah though they were eating hay. Upon venturing closer Josiah could see a little baby, wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in the manger. A beautiful woman and proud looking man are there along with heavenly hosts praising God. Josiah is compelled to draw nearer and is filled with the spirit.

“E-excuse me. I don’t mean to interfere.”

“You are most welcome sir. Please come closer. This is the Christ child and my wife Mary. My name is Joseph.”

“I-I’m named Josiah which is also Joseph. Is this the king of kings I have heard about”

“So nice to meet you, Josiah. Yes, this is he.”

“I want to give the baby a gift but I don’t have anything to offer but this crust of bread.”

“He would be honored to receive it.”

“Here little baby. I’m sorry it is so meager and not worthy of the king of kings.”

“Your gift gives him pleasure and more from the heart than all the gold, frankincense, and myrrh which he has already received. Go in peace Josiah.”

“Thank you your grace.”

“I’m a carpenter, Josiah.”

“Thank you, Joseph.”

Friday JohnKu – AKA – TGIF – and A Wish

December 23, 2016December 22, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 62 Comments

Christmas Tree

One more Friday bites the dust. I know a lot of companies are letting their folks go early today so it could be that the week will be history by noon. (woo woo).

Here we are only two more shopping days until Christmas Day. I hope Y’all are ready and if not, I wish you the best in keeping your panic under control. I find margaritas are very useful in this regard.

Today’s JohnKu brings you a wish for a Happy Holiday season

To those who I know,

Include those I never met. . .

Happiness to you.

First Six Volumes of Legends Of Windemere for $0.99 from Noon EST 12-22 to 12-26

December 22, 2016December 22, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 20 Comments

John says “This is Crazy!!! SIX Books for 2/3’s the Price of a Latte at Starbucks?” Charles says, “Mind Your Own Business, John. I’m Doing It!”

From December 22nd at Noon EST to December 26th (8 AM PST) you can get the first 6 volumes of
LEGENDS OF WINDEMERE
for $2!

Cover Art by Jason Pedersen 3D Conversion by Bestt_graphics — Cover Art by Jason Pedersen
3D Conversion by Bestt_graphics

*This Book Bundle contains the first 3 volumes of the LEGENDS OF WINDEMERE fantasy series.*

Every hero must take that first courageous step into adventure. For Luke Callindor, it’s more of a blind stumble. From battling a demonic assassin to facing the family he left behind, this warrior’s adventuring career has been one awkward mistake after another. Most days the only things that keep him alive, yet never unharmed, are his trusted friends and his reckless courage. How long can his luck hold out before the gods of Windemere decide to cut his legend short?

ON AMAZON FOR 99 CENTS!

*This Book Bundle contains volumes 4-6 of the LEGENDS OF WINDEMERE fantasy series.*

The destiny of Nyx, Sari, and Luke Callindor has been revealed, but that does not make their lives any easier. With old enemies still on the hunt, a new threat is stepping out of the shadows to indulge his sadistic desires. From battling the magic-devouring Krypters in Hero’s Gate to facing a demonic curse that has befallen one of our heroes, the champions will be pushed to their limits and beyond. Can the arrival of two more destined warriors improve their chances or will it bring them one step closer to failing like their predecessors?

ON AMAZON FOR 99 CENTS!

Wednesday Story Day – AKA Hump Day

December 21, 2016December 19, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 43 Comments

Hump Day

It is Wednesday Story Time again. Last week we saw the sheriff one Mr. Gibson admonish Lucas not to begin painting the house until Alice Weston comes by with the Home Owner Association approval. The sheriff also let Lucas know that he lives near and will be keeping an eye on him. I guess we should get back to see what Lucas is doing while he is waiting.
“Oh hi, Lucas.”
“Mrs. Weston. How nice to see you.”
“I have your approval right here.”
“I appreciate all the effort it took to get that done Mrs. Weston.”
“Please call me Alice. Is Mrs. Murphy home?”
“No, she went to the store a little while ago. She should be back soon, though.”
“How soon do you think.”
“I’m not sure. By the way, Sheriff Gibson stopped by.”
“What did he want?”
“He told me not to begin painting until I got this authorization.”
“Just like Seth to butt his nose in where it doesn’t belong.”
“I think he thought he was helping you.”
“He would love to help me alright. Not sure I would want his kind of help, though.”
“I thought you were friends.”
“Friends Ha. That would be the day. I don’t need that kind of friend.”
“Did he arrest you or something?”
“Let’s just say a lady doesn’t talk ill of others and leave it at that. I could sure use a cold drink. It is hot today. Let’s go in and get some ice water.”
“Well, I don’t know. I’m not sure she left the house open.”
“Nobody locks doors around here. When did you say she would be back?”
“Well, she just left so I would say a couple of hours.”
“Oh, that will do nicely. Come on let’s go get some water.”
“I don’t think I’m allowed.”
“Nonsense. I’ll take responsibility. Come on in Lucas my man.”

Tuesday – Anything Possible – Kreative Kue #105 by Keith Channing

December 20, 2016December 19, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 38 Comments

Here are Keith’s words. “Using this photo (Below) as inspiration, write a short story, flash fiction, scene, poem; anything, really; and either put it (or a link to it) in a comment or email it to me at keithkreates@channing.fr before 6pm next Sunday (if you aren’t sure what the time is where I live, this link will tell you). If you post it on your own blog or site, a link to this page would be appreciated, but please do also mention it in a comment here – pingbacks don’t often work.

Go on. You know you want to. Let your creativity and imagination soar. I shall display the entries, with links to your own blog or web site, next Monday.”

The photo.

Kreative Kur #105

“I love imported gifts. So you say my present is hand-made in England.”

“Yes, and I’m not going to tell you any more about it.”

“Aw come on. You can give me a bigger hint. After all, it’s not going to get here in time for the holiday.”

“Oh, darling. I want you to be surprised. If I give you more hints you might guess what it is.”

“But I’m bursting with curiosity. Please? One more little tip?”

“Okay. Let me see. The gift represents what is good about nature.”

“My goodness. That is a strange hint. I expected something like, ‘It shines in the light like a star.'”

“Er. No. I thought you had rejected the commercialism and conspicuous spending that would be represented by something that shines in the light like a star.”

“Oh, I never said that. I said we should stick to more natural gifts like real metals and gems.”

“I guess I misunderstood your desires then. I thought we were going back to basics.”

“Well tell me gold and silver are not basic. How much more basic is a diamond?”

“I got you a symbol. A handmade symbol of recycling.”

“Recycling? Did you get me a hand-made basket of mulch?”

“No. Nothing like that. This you can keep in the house.”

“Now I’m not sure I want any more hints. I was hoping for a tangible expression of our love.”

“This is tangible.”

“Can I wear it on my finger.?”

“Er. No, but you can hold it in your arms.”

“In arms from England. OMG, you bought one of those Corgi dogs that the Queen hauls around.”

“No nothing like that. Tell you what. Let’s forget the English gift. It may not be the right thing, after all, I think I’ll just do something different.”

“Give me a hint?”

“Better than that, I’ll let you pick it out.”

Top Ten Things Not to Do When Boarding your Pet

December 19, 2016December 18, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 42 Comments

Pet sitter

Photo: http://www.mollythecatlady.com

The inspiration for this list is the fact that a lot of folks are traveling for the holidays. Not every pet is comfortable with going along, so many owners place their pets in a boarding facility. Here are a few hints to keep the outside world from thinking you have clearly lost your mind. Yes, parting with your pet into the care of others is traumatic, but we need to exercise some element of dignity when surrendering the fur baby.

Top Ten Things Not to Do When Boarding Your Pet

10 If you are boarding your pet, do not deliver them dressed in an outrageous costume. If you do, at best it may get lost. At worst, your pet will be marked as the one belonging to a crazy old person who thinks their pet is a child. ( Did you ever wonder why your pet is depressed when you come back. Huh Ferd?)

9 If you are boarding your pet, do not ask to meet all the other pets to see if there are any undesirables in the group. if you do, at best the staff will be too busy to accommodate you. At worst, you will see some characters that will give you nightmares. (This isn’t a country club, Bunky. Your pet has to face the reality of the real world)

8 If you are boarding your pet, do not try to make friends with other pets by passing out treats. If you do, at best the staff will ask you to stop. At worst, one of the pets getting a treat happens to be allergic to everything. (Looks like Tiny the WWF champion is heading your way after helping Brutus get rid of the treat. Hope that automatic door is working)

7 If you are boarding your pet, do not hand the staff a long list of things they need to do to make your pet happy. If you do, at best the list will hit the basket the moment you leave. At worst, the staff will realize that to take in your pet may be a monumental liability that they cannot accept. (Now you have nowhere else to go, Buster, since you’ve been banned from every other kennel.)

6 If you are boarding your pet, do not overstate the ability of your pet to get along well with others. If you do, at best your pet will be quarantined from playtime. At worst, you will be called back from your trip to answer a summons relating to your unfriendly pet. (Maybe you can explain to the court that to your knowledge your Great Dane never had a taste for Dashound.)

5 If you are boarding your pet, do not insist on leaving a picture of the family to keep it company. If you do, at best the staff will lose the image. At worst, your pet will not appreciate having to share the cramped space with the photo. (Wonder how it got so wet Buford?)

4 If you are boarding your pet, do not think by paying extra for a live video feed you have the right to call the facility at all hours of the night. If you do, at best your calls will go to voicemail. At worst, you will be banned from this facility and asked to come get your pet. (This is the last one in town Raymond. What are you going to do now?)

3 If you are boarding your pet, do not spend an inordinate amount of time saying goodbye, If you do, at best the staff will need to get your pet settled and may tell you to go. At worst, your pet will wonder what is going on and may have an anxiety attack. (Not a pretty picture of you and your pet sobbing on the floor of the reception area.)

2 If you are boarding your pet, do not include all their favorite toys. If you do, at best your pet will not play with most. At worst, other pets will find the toys more enjoyable, and they will be lost to the pack forever. (Makes you wonder how the toys got out into the general population. Right Slick?)

1 If you are boarding your pet, do not forget to have all the immunizations up to date. If you do, at best the facility has a resident vet and can take care of that for you. At worst, you will be canceling your trip since no facility will allow you entry. (Well too bad those tickets are not refundable)

Views of the Neighborhood

December 18, 2016December 17, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 55 Comments

This week’s views wraps up a look at Port Aransas parks.

Roberts Point Park

Roberts Point Park in Port Aransas is home to waterfront family fun. Built through volunteer efforts and a Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Recreation grant, this 50-acre park is located on a peninsula of land that juts into the Corpus Christi Ship Channel and forms a safe harbor for the municipal harbor that has 250 boat slips for permanent and transient vessels.

Here is an areal view of the park

Robert's Point Park

The red-roofed structure to the left is the harbor master building and also the Patsy Jones Amphitheater.
The amphitheater serves as a music venue for monthly concerts that are presented to the public free of charge on the 2nd Friday of each month from April through October. The amphitheater is located along the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, just north of the soccer field which hosts local league matches and pick-up games.

Here is a close up picture of the amphitheater. That boat to the right is the Polly Anna a shrimp boat and the harbor is to the right.

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On the green there is a Christmas tree and some snowmen. You can see Santa’s sleigh waiting for his arrival. When he gets here children and pets can have their picture taken. That tower in the background is the observation tower which gives an excellent view of the area. The roofed structure behind the Christmas tree is one of several pavilions that can be reserved for picnics. This time of year you pretty much have our choice of time.

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The park also has a play area for kids with plenty of room for family outings

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There is a jetty running around the park and a perfect spot to fish. There is also a lighted fishing dock that is just behind the observation tower.

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While I was taking photos a ship came through the channel and I managed to catch a dolphin bow surfing. This is a very common sight but never fails to amaze me when I see it. The greenish tone of the photo is because I had the zoom on full. I’m hoping Santa brings me a new lens so that I can capture these kinds of scenes more naturally.

Dolphin

I hope you enjoyed our little tour

Stream of Consciousness Saturday – Prompt “Moot”

December 17, 2016December 16, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 37 Comments

SOCS

It is Saturday and therefore time for Stream Of Consciousness. This week’s word is “moot.” Linda (Dungeness) Hill says we can use the word as a theme of the post of just the word itself. Let me think of which way I will go. Decisions, decisions. I wonder which way I will go? To those who know me have to figure it is a moot point. I will go with the word. If you would like to join in, visit Linda’s post. Here is the link. https://lindaghill.com/2016/12/16/the-friday-reminder-and-prompt-for-socs-dec-1716/

“How is that again?”

“I wonder if the paper is correct?”

“You wonder if the paper is correct or the information on the paper is correct?”

“Why is it we have to get into these ridiculous discussions?”

“What?”

“Of course I’m wondering if the information is correct. Sheesh.”

“You know half of the problems of the world are a matter of miscommunication.”

“So where did you get that statistic?”

“I read it on-line.”

“Tell me you read that on Wikipedia?”

“How’d you know.”

“When you pull something out of the air that is totally irrelevant to what we are talking about it is usually that you’ve been on Wikipedia again.”

“Let’s get back to the paper. What is on it?”

“They are saying we might have a white Christmas.”

“So what is the problem?”

“I just wonder if they are correct.”

“You won’t know until Christmas.”

“Maybe there is a way to verify the information.”

“I don’t think there is. I think this is a moot point.”

“You mean solved?”

“No. Moot means debatable with no certain solution.”

“So what is debatable?”

“Whether there is a way to be certain we’ll have a white Christmas.”

“We could check the weather forecasts.”

“Which are one hundred percent accurate?”

“Well, no. How about the government?”

“You would want to go there?”

“I see what you mean. it is debatable.”

“Moot.”

“Yup. Merry Christmas.”

“Happy New Year.”

Friday – JohnKu – AKA TGIF

December 16, 2016December 14, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 42 Comments

Friday

Another Friday and there are only two more left in the year. Hummm that makes them sound more precious than usual. The good news is there is at least one more before Christmas. That means at least seven more shopping days (well, actually there are eight) until you are out of luck on the brownie point department. I would call this “last-minute,” but know some people who wait until the 23rd or 24th. I’m way too obsessive for that kind of behavior. If I waited until the 23rd, there would be 22 (at least) sleepless nights worrying about whether the gift would be available, able to be located, or even still on the market. When I shop early, I know my options and can plan accordingly. I have back-ups to the back-ups since I take this gift giving stuff seriously. I live in a very small town, so on-line has been a boon. Residing in a larger city, I used to be able to go to the mall and find exactly what I had in mind. Now there is no mall, and my wife is not someone who would like fish-hook earrings. I have my shopping done, and only one gift is “late.” I got on the phone yesterday to track it down and was informed it would be delivered today. So all is good. I will spend time wrapping (laughable) the gifts and then sit back and enjoy the holiday. Of course, I will have to fret about the question on whether the gifts are acceptable or not. At least I didn’t have to settle on a late buying binge, and I’m to blame if the gifts are not right.

Today’s JohnKu talks about gift giving.

There’s only one chance,

To find that perfect present. . .

From the heart is best.

A Little Personal – My Friend Charlie

December 15, 2016December 15, 2016 ~ John W. Howell ~ 53 Comments

Five years ago today I lost a dear friend. His name is Charles L. Gruner but I always called him Charlie.

Charlie and I met in 1982 when I made a move from the East coast to the Midwest. The company I worked for was headquartered there and I was given an opportunity which I couldn’t refuse.

I really can’t remember how I met Charlie and his wonderful wife. I think it might have been a gathering at a neighbor’s house. Charlie lived a couple of blocks over and so it must have been at one of the neighbors. All I know is we hit it off immediately. He is one of those guys who you immediately like. He had a laugh that could be heard across the room. So, if you didn’t know Charlie you knew of Charlie.

Our relationship became closer as we both went through periods of challenge. I finally moved away from the area to pursue a new position on the West Coast. We stayed in touch and then I got some heartbreaking news in 2006. Charlie had Cancer. Well, he beat it that time, and we went on as if nothing was wrong. Although we talked on the phone, I didn’t see Charlie again until 2011 when I traveled back to the midwest. It was if we had never been apart. We caught up and the time flew. Before the time together was over, Charlie told me he was going to write a book. He wanted to impart some of the knowledge he had acquired in his business life. Charlie was very successful CEO, and such a book would be a treasure.

One dismal day in December his wife called and told me Charlie was not going to live. I was struck dumb. Twenty-nine years of our friendship was over way too fast. I was able to talk to him one last time and told him how much I loved him.

Charlie did write his book and became published after he was gone. As I indicated in my review, it is a great tool to be kept hidden. If discovered, the secret of the reader’s success will be uncovered.

I still miss Charlie and carry some fond memories.