tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43444978876027145632024-03-13T17:48:40.658-04:00Jack of all Hobbies: One man's quest to alleviate his boredomJackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.comBlogger214125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-3882698849952118342023-01-01T21:37:00.003-05:002023-01-01T21:37:53.290-05:00Stopping by the Blog.<p> I haven't visited in a long time, and I thought I should see if the account is active or not. It appears that people have been finding their way here. However, they haven't left any comments. </p><p>If you find yourself reading these posts, please let me know what you think. The passion has not died away.</p>Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-2708338574249778402015-05-03T12:06:00.000-04:002015-05-03T12:06:15.417-04:00Moving
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0kw-k5HiBDs/VUZG4TbgUXI/AAAAAAAAEC4/ktRUgUCPz0g/s1600/moving2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0kw-k5HiBDs/VUZG4TbgUXI/AAAAAAAAEC4/ktRUgUCPz0g/s1600/moving2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
A couple of years ago, I started writing a blog on
hobbies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People said it would be fun and
it would give me a lot of writing practice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I searched the internet for places to blog and settled on blogger
because it came so highly recommended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most people explained that it was easy to use, looked pretty good, and
that I had a chance to make some money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That all sounded attractive to me.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
They were quite correct.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Setting up the blog, and others, was quite easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I generally liked the look of it and was
quite satisfied with the results.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
tried my hand at the money thing in various incarnations but failed to cash in
on that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the result of a
combination of overzealousness by my students and a lack of page views .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you don't attract the people, you probably
won't be the next internet sensation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Nonetheless, I soldiered on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What I found was that I liked the writing and I enjoyed the small amount
of interaction with readers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It just
didn't grow at all, and very few people left any comments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the time, I figured this was normal, but I
wondered why blogging was popular if you didn't get a lot of comments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Then a funny thing happened.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I started a blog on WordPress (the free one) because I just wanted to
write something different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While it
isn't a runaway hit (or featured on Freshly Pressed) it did seem to garner more
of a following.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I realized that WP did a
better job of promoting within itself, and creating a community of bloggers.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
So that's why I am here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I am hoping for a bigger audience and greater interaction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Only time will tell, but I am quiet
optimistic. Please visit my blog at <a href="https://tonsofhobbies.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">this location</a>.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
The Name</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
When I started on Blogger, I called this blog Jack of All
Hobbies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought I was being
witty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I figured people would get the
allusion to jack of all trades, master of none.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instead, people just thought my name was Jack (which it isn't) and I
wasn't smart at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I probably should
have changed the title, but by then it just seemed like too much work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As of now, I am trying to decide if I should
be "<strong>A Man with Too Many Hobbies</strong>" or "<strong>Too Many Hobbies--So Little
Time</strong>."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please let me know what you
think.</div>
<br />
<a href="https://tonsofhobbies.wordpress.com/">https://tonsofhobbies.wordpress.com/</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Thank YouJackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-35330923537869758372015-04-14T09:23:00.000-04:002015-04-14T09:31:52.733-04:00Hobby Inspiration from an Unusual Place<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5dr4sgmn3j8/VS0Tpjy0yqI/AAAAAAAAD-g/2wKKhKZg4Dc/s1600/hitme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5dr4sgmn3j8/VS0Tpjy0yqI/AAAAAAAAD-g/2wKKhKZg4Dc/s1600/hitme.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
It is weird where hobby inspiration comes from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get the itch to start a new hobby quite
easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often it is from talking to
people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When someone is passionate about
something, then you can't help but be intrigued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often it is from television.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Exposing the masses to something will
certainly catch some people's interest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most recently for me, it was from a book.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pRXWMsNo5MU/VS0Tt5uFxTI/AAAAAAAAD-o/aLaajcj21Dc/s1600/stamp1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pRXWMsNo5MU/VS0Tt5uFxTI/AAAAAAAAD-o/aLaajcj21Dc/s1600/stamp1.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks pretty and organized.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I started reading Lawrence Block's Hit Me on a
recommendation from a friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He had
recommended another series by Block, but I couldn't find them in the library so
I settled on this one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The basic story
was that of a contract killer who loves..... wait for it...not alcohol.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not fast cars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not loose women......stamps.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The character (his name is Keller) had such passion for
stamps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He also had a lot of knowledge
to impart on this impressionable reader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He detailed the equipment and literature, as well as quite a lot of
historical information about stamps.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I was young I shared a stamp collecting hobby until
that person took it over and became obsessed with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don't even know what became of it
afterward--probably someone benefited from it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Either way, I do remember looking at the stamps and thinking of exotic
places.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved the themes--trains,
cars, paintings, space travel, .... the ideas were endless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some countries, it is really interesting
to see what they value enough to put on stamps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Of course, for some countries, they are hoping other people from foreign
countries will value them enough to collect them--hence the Disney stamps
produced by some countries--I guess some country has already produced a Frozen
stamp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wonder if that is a big part of
their GDP. (note...I checked, and yes, a stamp already exists)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jtgq7xLNCLE/VS0VcteZbnI/AAAAAAAAD_M/1WPEKMw51Ec/s1600/calvinstamp.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jtgq7xLNCLE/VS0VcteZbnI/AAAAAAAAD_M/1WPEKMw51Ec/s1600/calvinstamp.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I would love to have this one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As for me, yes, there is an itch....but I won't even scratch
this one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is just too much out
there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Too many stamps from too many
countries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While the tool collector in
me loves the idea of all those specialist tweezers, there is just too much
involved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On top of that, since I really
am more interested in the pictures than the collecting aspect, I would be
better off buying a full colour catalogue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I could enjoy the hobby is a much more confined way.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
As for the novel....I enjoyed its episodic nature and
reading about stamps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
entertaining and certainly made my commute more enjoyable. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-87475406077879706792015-04-05T11:41:00.001-04:002015-04-05T11:43:36.798-04:00Happy Easter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksGj3nkcJMg/VSFXiyQK4CI/AAAAAAAAD9g/_IqJRNNd_xU/s1600/easter2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ksGj3nkcJMg/VSFXiyQK4CI/AAAAAAAAD9g/_IqJRNNd_xU/s1600/easter2.png" /></a></div>
<br />
I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Easter. <br />
For those of you doing hobbies, I hope you get a chance to do them today. I would have written a post about Easter eggs...but that is one hobby I have never pursued. Additionally, I have already ranted about Kinder Eggs on my other blog. <a href="https://todaysperfectmoment.wordpress.com/2015/04/05/kinder-disappointment/" target="_blank">Kinder Disappointment</a> (Please take a look if you haven't already.) I figured it would be pointless to do it here as well.<br />
<br />
I am adding myself to bloglovin--so I am adding some text below this sentence. I figured I had better put some words in case something strange appears.<br />
<a href="<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/13929417/?claim=zxwwsfkw5nh">Follow">http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/13929417/?claim=zxwwsfkw5nh">Follow</a> my blog with Bloglovin</a>Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-40434799206061828612015-03-29T23:27:00.001-04:002015-03-29T23:27:28.476-04:00On Blogging<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Blogs are funny things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe at first it is an exercise in writing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps it is practice for a future writing
career.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it is even therapeutic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Primarily, so we think at first, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>we write them for ourselves, but then things
change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We want to attract readers and
comments.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We want to interact, or at the
very least be recognized for our contribution.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I have read countless articles on how to attract
readers--increase traffic, if I am to use the jargon of the trade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have read numerous stories of writers being
approached by companies to pitch their products, or at the very least, review
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have read blogs by people who
seemingly make their living off them.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I don't mean for this to sound all negative.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead, I just want to understand my
feelings toward it a little better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
want this blog to attract readers, but have started to think that it is
difficult.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unlike WordPress (where I
write a different blog) there doesn't seem to be a way to get other bloggers
interested in this one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
"featured blogs" haven't changed since I started and choosing
"next blog" often leads me to blogs written in languages I can't
understand.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The tales of financial independence seem equally distant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While I appreciate the ability to plug in
third person advertising, it hardly seems profitable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one has approached me with review jobs and
very few comments have indicated where to find this.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The odd thing is, despite all that I have written, I have no
intention of giving up on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end
it may not offer financial salvation, nor even any real growth, but I still
enjoy putting the words on the screen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
still enjoy expressing myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess
blogging has become my hobby.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-41503007308453429532015-03-12T20:19:00.005-04:002015-03-12T20:19:59.346-04:00Another tool? Really?
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rkFv5NK2XLA/VQIsnc9ogWI/AAAAAAAAD54/rOy7eRB7R5Y/s1600/kit%2Bkat%2Band%2Bgloves%2B005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rkFv5NK2XLA/VQIsnc9ogWI/AAAAAAAAD54/rOy7eRB7R5Y/s1600/kit%2Bkat%2Band%2Bgloves%2B005.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And I bought new gloves too.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I think it is well chronicled on these pages that I have a
weakness for tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I've written a
number of posts about it, and taken more pictures than I should.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also have to admit that I open the Canadian
Tire and Home Hardware flyers first--well before the food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whenever I visit those stores, I always walk
around the tool sections, hefting the wrenches and drills when opportunity
allows.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
So it should come as no surprise that bike ownership can
also include some tools.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
When I purchased the bike, I asked what tools I would
need--this is probably the kind of words a salesman dreams of hearing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, they said I would need a pump, a
multi tool and some tire levers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
assured me the bike comes with a several tune-ups and there was much less
maintenance than a mountain bike.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Being at the bike show, I couldn't resist picking up this
tool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will I need it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Doubtless, there are ways to measure chain
wear without this tool--but .....tools are cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like tools. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
As you can see, it was a moment of weakness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately for me, it isn't a big ticket item,
and it didn't break the bank. It was cheaper than I have seen it at bike shops and even online shops. It isn't like I bought the entire Park Tool Master Kit.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-42216666508622551212015-03-08T11:06:00.000-04:002015-03-08T11:06:14.866-04:00At the Bike Show<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DtDEM25uR1E/VPxlI4FWjWI/AAAAAAAAD5A/gWKfac1udxE/s1600/bike%2Bshow%2B005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DtDEM25uR1E/VPxlI4FWjWI/AAAAAAAAD5A/gWKfac1udxE/s1600/bike%2Bshow%2B005.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
There is something about going to a bicycle show that really
gets my heart pumping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I go to walk
through row up on row of bikes and stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There were mountain bikes, road bikes, hybrid bikes and cross
bikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were tools, tires, clothes
and helmets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The best way to describe it
would be to call it a toy store for adults.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The only thing that bothered me was the entry price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I find it rather unfair that one has to pay
to go shopping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is like having a
daily admission price to Costco.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
price was 15 dollars, and I would rather have spent that money on something
else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I know there are a lot of
costs in putting a show like that on (security, rentals etc) but they could
have at least given us a break on the food.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I would have to say that cycling is rather popular.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There were so many people who were interested
in cycling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And most of them were also
very friendly. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I didn't go to the show to shop, but rather to find out
about cycling vacations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am really
interested in going on a cycling trip somewhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I collected quite a few route maps and found
quite a few cycling destinations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now I
just have to get in shape because some of the routes seem rather ambitious.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
As for swag--I was hoping for more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I came home with lots of trail and route
maps, some back issues of magazines and even a tool catalogue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I was expecting more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hoped for some socks, or a t-shirt, maybe a
free water bottle... something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess
it isn't a car show.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-76285185865248883162015-02-22T11:41:00.000-05:002015-02-22T11:41:06.416-05:00My Thoughts on Tank Nation
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UO5tsGb61G4/VOoF-4uFezI/AAAAAAAAD1w/b-v9EwV3lLM/s1600/playoffs%2B008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UO5tsGb61G4/VOoF-4uFezI/AAAAAAAAD1w/b-v9EwV3lLM/s1600/playoffs%2B008.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What would Carelton say?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Over the last week or so, there has been a lot of talk about
the imminent rebuilding of the Toronto Maple Leafs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Additionally, there has been a lot of talk of
"tank nation" in which the Leafs would throw the remaining games to
better improve their odds of getting<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a
draft pick.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RMtqZB5GHrw/VOoGVzBI3XI/AAAAAAAAD14/aFTbZH9wMHE/s1600/connor.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RMtqZB5GHrw/VOoGVzBI3XI/AAAAAAAAD14/aFTbZH9wMHE/s1600/connor.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, I'd love to see him in a Leaf uniform.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">While I certainly welcome a complete and sincere rebuild, I
am not so sure about the idea of playing to lose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As we have already seen, losing becomes a
habit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we start lowering our compete
level, can we get it back?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">There are some other problems with this idea.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The "superstars" that we are going to be trading away will want to look good for their future team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They want to be sought after by strong teams, not weak teams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Playing to lose won't improve their value on the trade market.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That's a lose-lose proposition.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The team seems to have lost without trying to lose, so maybe we should just let nature take its course.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Once we have jettisoned our free agent talent, or older players, or overpaid players, or whomever we let go, I suspect that the team won't be in any position to compete anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Losing will happen, whether we want it to or not.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">What kind of mood will be left in the dressing room by a team that gave up?</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">These players have been competing for their whole lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can we expect them to unlearn that behaviour?</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">In the end, we will just have to see how things turn
out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I welcome your opinions.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-40436060966717845312015-02-21T11:46:00.002-05:002015-02-21T12:25:16.324-05:00I Finally Found It<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JlyFUPG39QU/VOi1WwlmcmI/AAAAAAAAD1g/relfmGvSs3g/s1600/freight%2Bcars%2B004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JlyFUPG39QU/VOi1WwlmcmI/AAAAAAAAD1g/relfmGvSs3g/s1600/freight%2Bcars%2B004.JPG" height="320" width="243" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Despite being into model trains, I really don't know a whole
lot about them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have learned a lot in
while pursuing this hobby, but I am nothing like the people I meet at the hobby
shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These people are way into the
hobby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They quote rail lines and dish
out engine numbers like I could recite comic book characters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have a name for every part of every car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It amazes and astounds me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Granted, sometimes it makes me feel rather
uninformed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also makes me feel that I
just don't take this hobby as serious as other people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to admit, that doesn't really bother
me.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Nonetheless, I do want to continue to educate myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I participate in online forums, search the
web and do a lot of reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have
seen my other post, you will know that I have amassed a library of interesting
books. Here is a link to that post. </div>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://jackofallhobby.blogspot.ca/2012/05/procrastination-thy-name-is-research.html">http://jackofallhobby.blogspot.ca/2012/05/procrastination-thy-name-is-research.html</a></span></div>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Unfortunately, one book has eluded
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I considered it my white whale
(thanks Melville).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since I started this
hobby, I have wanted to read The Model Railroaders Guide to Freight Cars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The problem was that the book was no longer
in print and the prices people were asking for existing copies was rather
astronomical.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We're talking over $300 in
some cases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wanted to read it....but
not at that price.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I have scoured hobby shops, hoping that a stray copy was
lurking in an overlooked bin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
gone to flea markets, train shows, and even hoped that some unlucky hobbyist's
wife or husband had decided to put their copy into a garage sale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I have gone so far as to contact the publisher to see if they had a copy or if they ever planned to reprint the book. They didn't even bother to respond--Thanks Kalmbach. </span>I have had the book on my favourites list at
Amazon for quite a number of years.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Luckily, I continuously check my lists, because someone
decided to part with theirs for a price I deemed reasonable (profitable for
sure, but nonetheless reasonable).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
arrived yesterday and I couldn't be happier.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This seller will no doubt get a five star rating from me.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I haven't started reading it yet, but after leafing through
it, I feel quite happy with my purchase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know, most of this information (if not all) is available online, but I
like books.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like sitting on my deck
(when it isn't bitterly cold outside or snowing) and reading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is just something so satisfying about
the tactile experience. If I feel the need, perhaps I will do a review of the
book.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
All of <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>this got me
thinking....is there anything out there that you consider your white whale?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is there something you are on the lookout
for?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I imagine it could be an original
Star Wars figure still in the package, or Wayne Gretzky's Rookie card, or .....
who knows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would love to hear what you
are looking for. </div>
<br />
As for me, next on my list is either a 1:12 Mustang convertible model kit, a book on the history of the Starlost, a collection of Park tools for my bicycle, or...... I had better stop before I say too much.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-79164845002056005252015-02-12T18:58:00.000-05:002015-02-12T18:58:08.736-05:00Where Did All This Stuff Come From?
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mk08r9Q-cOo/VN09I6THTiI/AAAAAAAAD0E/d77vb-iwHe0/s1600/partsbox%2B002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mk08r9Q-cOo/VN09I6THTiI/AAAAAAAAD0E/d77vb-iwHe0/s1600/partsbox%2B002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
While looking through my unbuilt collection of models I came
across a few other boxes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These boxes
fell into three categories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The parts
box, the scratch building box and the other box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is all this stuff and where the heck did
it all come from?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The parts box or the spares box (there are probably just as
many names for this as there are modellers--partners of modellers probably call
this the box of crap, but that's another story) came about from the extra parts
that are included with models.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
models have different parts because they can be build different ways (the 2 in
1 or the 3 in one model). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a 57
Fairlane that can be built stock/custom/or with optional parts. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some have parts left on the parts tree from
earlier versions of the model kit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have drag bars because one of the 66 mustang kits I've built had a previous
life as a dragster kit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I couldn't throw
them out, so now their in the parts box.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oeI5-aKREUY/VN09VWY9SzI/AAAAAAAAD0U/RJTS1yzqYcc/s1600/partsbox%2B008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oeI5-aKREUY/VN09VWY9SzI/AAAAAAAAD0U/RJTS1yzqYcc/s1600/partsbox%2B008.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The scratch building box is collection of stuff that I
thought might one day might fit into my models.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Often I think of building unusual train car loads, or wild science
fiction ships. This probably came about from searching out the stuff under the
title Maschinen Krieger, or watching the great Japanese TV show Plamo Tsukurou--if
you haven't done so, you should check both of them out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either way, I suspect all modellers look at
stuff destined for the trash or recycle box the same way.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The last box, which I have labelled the other box, in my
case is a bunch of models that I have decommissioned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe they fell from their shelf in
cleaning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe they broke in one of the
many moves I made.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe they weren't as
well done as I would have liked and became euthanized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the case of one of my top fuel dragsters,
I broke some pieces putting it together and became so frustrated that I stopped
building it and sent the strong parts to the box.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wAQTiAAFMAM/VN09O7FC7sI/AAAAAAAAD0M/96vFRTuyoSg/s1600/partsbox%2B005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wAQTiAAFMAM/VN09O7FC7sI/AAAAAAAAD0M/96vFRTuyoSg/s1600/partsbox%2B005.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>So what am I going to do with all of this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides the aforementioned flatcar loads, I
have the same dream as many modellers do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I plan (and plan is a good word, as it may never get beyond the planning
stage) to build a great diorama.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These
parts will look excellent it that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These
parts will make that diorama look amazing...I hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This diorama will most likely be some kind of
car shop diorama.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The extra car parts
(the tires, the engines, the seats, should all fit in perfectly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I guess that means I will be holding onto
them for a little while longer.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
What about you readers?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What do you do with your parts boxes?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I would love to see some examples.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-2214704961319749882015-02-03T13:56:00.001-05:002015-02-03T13:56:45.040-05:00My initial reactions on having a spray booth
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UZT721_CHi8/VNEZ3izAgvI/AAAAAAAADyg/MlHF6ygesiY/s1600/spray%2Bbooth%2B002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UZT721_CHi8/VNEZ3izAgvI/AAAAAAAADyg/MlHF6ygesiY/s1600/spray%2Bbooth%2B002.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I had been planning on purchasing a spray booth for quite
some time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I finally took the plunge and
got it set up in my reorganized hobby room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(See last post for reorganization) The booth is portable and sets up pretty easily. I have the complete venting hose so I can run it outside with only a small window crack, which is important when you are living in Canada and it is winter.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
My initial reactions are quite positive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The things that strike me conclusively are:</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
better air quality<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(a major plus!)</div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
better visibility with the light attachment</div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
less overspray</div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I have only used it twice, but have felt good about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are some things it doesn't do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It doesn't:</div>
<ul>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
improve the way I mix the paint and set the air pressure--improperly mixed paints and incorrect settings cause splotches and poorly atomized paint spray.</div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
improve my painting technique--practice makes perfect</div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
hide my mistakes--you'll notice that I didn't use the macro lens.</div>
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I certainly don't regret my decision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have other areas to improve upon, but
having the right equipment is not a mistake.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-28863884310053367272015-01-31T10:33:00.001-05:002015-01-31T10:33:50.475-05:00Getting Organized
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
The first step in getting back to my model hobby is to
earnestly get my hobby desk in order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While that sounds like a good idea, until you have to move about 30
small paint bottles, little by little, you don't realize that this is a bit of
an undertaking.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I have included a before and after shot, just so you can see what I am working with. It isn't as brightly lit as I would like...but I shouldn't complain. It isn't like I can't go buy another lamp.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZTUWY8D6Zc/VMz0agI21gI/AAAAAAAADxk/XtUEYcnTups/s1600/hobbydesk%2B001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZTUWY8D6Zc/VMz0agI21gI/AAAAAAAADxk/XtUEYcnTups/s1600/hobbydesk%2B001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: left;">
If you are interested in my thoughts on organization, and want to read more, please check out my other blog. <a href="https://todaysperfectmoment.wordpress.com/2015/01/25/the-better-organized-me/">https://todaysperfectmoment.wordpress.com/2015/01/25/the-better-organized-me/</a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
It isn't really about hobbies, but some of the better writing I have done lately is there.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div align="justify">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HrQw3OeK8mY/VMz0eAA1H4I/AAAAAAAADxs/SeBLNlsvi-0/s1600/hobbydesk%2B003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HrQw3OeK8mY/VMz0eAA1H4I/AAAAAAAADxs/SeBLNlsvi-0/s1600/hobbydesk%2B003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More organized<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
As you can see by the shot, I have made the decision to
purchase a spray booth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From a health
perspective, this was a no brainer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While all of the paints I use say they are "non-toxic" I fear
that a phrase like that, translate through lawyers and other legal jargon,
really means, "not as toxic as poison, so you can't sue us, but still not
great for your lungs."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I haven't used
it yet, but hopefully today or tomorrow.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-63106814040868807292015-01-24T09:40:00.000-05:002015-01-24T09:40:51.151-05:00Can You Ever Have Enough Tools?
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Okay, if I wasn't sure before, I am sure now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a very bad habit of buying tools for
my hobbies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I went to the hobby store,
planning strongly to resist any purchasing of tools and magazines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I even took a friend--you know, don't go
swimming without a buddy, hoping that they would help me be the voice of
reason, or at least restraint.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
No such luck.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FiOcbf0wlMg/VMOuFKEEd7I/AAAAAAAADws/qS9lLbIX2Fc/s1600/My%2BCar%2B013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FiOcbf0wlMg/VMOuFKEEd7I/AAAAAAAADws/qS9lLbIX2Fc/s1600/My%2BCar%2B013.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I don't mean to blame my friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They would have restrained me if I had
asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just didn't ask and proceeded
to the checkout very quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am my
own worst enemy....I guess.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
On the bright side, I do think I made a good purchase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have a lot of train buildings to assemble
and not one of them has a square edge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That's right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to assemble about 20 buildings for my
train layout, and not one of them has a straight edge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You see, to facilitate the manufacturing
process, the moulds all have "draft" edges, so they will pop out of
the machine easily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmmm?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You'd think with today's technology there
would be another way around this--but what do I know of injection moulding?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the end, I have to sand the edges until
they are 90 degrees.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
You might remember a post where I created my own sanding
board.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That worked well, but provided no
way to evaluate my work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This tool
should do the same thing, and allow me to be a bit more uniform.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
My friend, and several people at the shop, said I was making
a wise purchase.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They explained that
while I didn't need the tools, the proper tools make things go so much easier.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Any thoughts.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-52105252199440342692015-01-10T11:34:00.000-05:002015-01-11T10:10:43.093-05:00Nothing But Blue Sky<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsuiQ3xx3yI/VLFUAQoPznI/AAAAAAAADuw/c6PQKDOMOuM/s1600/My%2BCar%2B009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bsuiQ3xx3yI/VLFUAQoPznI/AAAAAAAADuw/c6PQKDOMOuM/s1600/My%2BCar%2B009.JPG" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I do indeed like doing puzzles, but they often come to the
same conclusion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I quickly assemble the
edges (Sheldon Cooper would be so proud), and sort the sky, sky and land, and
land parts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I assemble the edges
where the sky and land meet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I fill
in the land parts.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Then I am left with the sky.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
The Blue sky. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
As you can see, I might have left the daunting part for
last.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Actually, there is no
"might" about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have left
the most daunting part last.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not for
clouds and sky gradation, I would have to try each piece in each part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, that's not true. I would have to try half
the parts (the vertical versus the horizontal parts) in each spot.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XHIlrWvSctQ/VLFUIcX-7CI/AAAAAAAADu4/6FUAgd7nays/s1600/My%2BCar%2B011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XHIlrWvSctQ/VLFUIcX-7CI/AAAAAAAADu4/6FUAgd7nays/s1600/My%2BCar%2B011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XHIlrWvSctQ/VLFUIcX-7CI/AAAAAAAADu4/6FUAgd7nays/s1600/My%2BCar%2B011.JPG" height="182" width="320" /></a><br />
As for this puzzle, also another dollar store find, it was
of much better quality than the last one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It was a little more challenging to assemble, but that is probably a
good thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also appreciated being
able to use the box bottom as a sorting tray--something I was not able to do in
the last puzzle.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I think this is my last puzzle for the foreseeable future--but
who knows.</div>
</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-22230502246809008912015-01-02T11:00:00.000-05:002015-01-02T11:00:40.549-05:00New Year...... New Plans
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QhQQWSSWrGw/VKbAbHqwXdI/AAAAAAAADt0/VQf_3g3geV0/s1600/hobbyshop2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QhQQWSSWrGw/VKbAbHqwXdI/AAAAAAAADt0/VQf_3g3geV0/s1600/hobbyshop2.jpg" height="142" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Today, it looks like I am going to the hobby store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What kind of danger will I get myself
into.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmmm?</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I really have to many hobbies, but I am sure there might be
a bargain or two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will I be able to
resist?</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Lately, I have been strong, but I feel like I might weaken
today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just have that itch to try a new model
kit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It might be an airplane, or it might
be ship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Really, it might be a dream 32
Highboy Roadster or a very detailed 67 Mustang Fastback.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I just don't know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it were summertime, it might be a remote
control helicopter or rocket kit.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I do know that they hobby store is a fun place to go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I'll be taking a friend, so perhaps he will be
the voice of reason.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or more likely,
he'll fuel the shopping trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My biggest
goal is not to come back with any magazines.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Updates tomorrow.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-33187666116427527532014-12-26T15:34:00.000-05:002014-12-26T15:34:08.582-05:00Hobby Hacks: Hobby Hack Number One
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMxPYwgwMss/VJ3E-iioHrI/AAAAAAAADs8/HkdZ-s-hfx8/s1600/Labrador%2B008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMxPYwgwMss/VJ3E-iioHrI/AAAAAAAADs8/HkdZ-s-hfx8/s1600/Labrador%2B008.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">While I am waiting for my model helicopter parts to dry, I
thought I would share something with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have decided to call this a hobby hack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These are useful tips that one can use while making models or other hobbies.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I can't remember exactly where I bought these clips, but I
am pretty sure it was a dollar store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
can't guarantee it was in <st1:country-region w:st="on">Canada</st1:country-region>
because it might have been from a 100 yen shop in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Japan</st1:place></st1:country-region>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sorry.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--0cf3S7Nsc0/VJ3FLPnaUcI/AAAAAAAADtM/mBlxkj3VRsw/s1600/Labrador%2B012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--0cf3S7Nsc0/VJ3FLPnaUcI/AAAAAAAADtM/mBlxkj3VRsw/s1600/Labrador%2B012.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">I am pretty sure I bought them to clamp something together,
or hold something together while the glue was drying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The funny thing is that I have never used
them for that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think the clips are a
bit too strong and could harm or scratch something (probably not, but you never
know).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead I found a cool use for
them. </span></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-28Dl-V9uGik/VJ3FTi_bpKI/AAAAAAAADtU/dfcVE5uUfAY/s1600/Labrador%2B009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-28Dl-V9uGik/VJ3FTi_bpKI/AAAAAAAADtU/dfcVE5uUfAY/s1600/Labrador%2B009.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;">They make a great stand for parts sprues while they are
drying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let's call this hobby hack
number one.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-45728191548087960082014-12-13T10:30:00.000-05:002014-12-13T10:30:09.373-05:00A Quick Puzzle Before Christmas
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LO19tTZtyfc/VIxasuFpE4I/AAAAAAAADr0/L8MiHN2Xn2c/s1600/puzzles%2B003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LO19tTZtyfc/VIxasuFpE4I/AAAAAAAADr0/L8MiHN2Xn2c/s1600/puzzles%2B003.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Despite being the king (oops, I meant jack) of all hobbies,
I have to admit, I haven 't done a lot of hobby related things lately.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could blame the weather, or I could blame
myself and the fall TV schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Either
way, I haven't had a lot to write about.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I have been writing my other blog, whose links you can find
on the right side of this page under the title "cool blogs".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mine is called Today's Perfect Moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been putting a lot of energy there and
have grown a rather large community in a short time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There seems to be a lot more cross blogging
done there and the page is set up to encourage followers.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
HOBBY HAPPENINGS</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
While I haven't done a lot, I have done some things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most recently, I got the itch to do a
puzzle. Maybe it is because I associate puzzles with Christmas. I am surprised that no one gives these things as stocking stuffers anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Knowing how addicting that can
be, I really wasn't in the mood to tackle a monster 5000 piece puzzle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also didn't want to spend a lot of money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What was my answer...the dollar store of
course.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I found a couple of decent puzzles at the dollar store
(Dollar Tree in this case) and purchased them for $1.25 each.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even with Canadian tax, that still brought in
two puzzles for less than $3.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I spent a couple of nights on the first one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There seems to be no deterioration in my
puzzle building skills and I was able to do it rather quickly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, that first night, I did the usual
"just one more piece before I go to bed" thing, and wound up spending
a hour or more when I should have been sleeping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This probably was to the detriment of my students
but I didn't actually yawn while teaching.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LX-g6NlajfQ/VIxaxS4qNaI/AAAAAAAADr8/zCN7Lp5DhmI/s1600/puzzles%2B001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LX-g6NlajfQ/VIxaxS4qNaI/AAAAAAAADr8/zCN7Lp5DhmI/s1600/puzzles%2B001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>The puzzle wasn't the best quality.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fit was a little loose and it came apart
a couple of times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some pieces still had
untrimmed edges (there seemed to be extra paper at the bottom layer of some of
the pieces) and one was a little crumpled.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, it only cost $1.25, so I can't get tremendously angry about
that.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
When I lived in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Japan</st1:country-region></st1:place>, I bought frames and puzzle
glue for the puzzles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, these
days, now that I have finished, I will probably take it apart and give it to
someone else to do.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-60532767344997146412014-10-13T10:39:00.000-04:002014-10-13T10:39:05.278-04:00On Hockey Pools
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezjqlBxSv0g/VDvjzlHQoqI/AAAAAAAADkk/PEVwHITPVb4/s1600/hockey.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezjqlBxSv0g/VDvjzlHQoqI/AAAAAAAADkk/PEVwHITPVb4/s1600/hockey.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
The first week of this year's hockey pool is done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By determination, research and skill (also
known as blind luck) I am leading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
this is no indication of future success, it makes me feel good nonetheless.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
What I have found amazing over these past couple of days is
the technology of it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Websites provide
services that allow one to customize your pool in a dizzying array of
ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Additionally, they provide real
time stats.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact that it works so
well is only blown away by the fact that it is provided for free.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
What did people do before?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What poor soul had to sit down with a newspaper/many newspapers on
Monday and work out everyone's points?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Either pools were a lot simpler then, or that person didn't get any
"real" work done that day.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Having talked to a few people, it seems like the technology
has not only made it easier to keep track of things, but somehow it allows
people to be in a number of pools at once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How they don't get confused between players from one pool team to the
next is beyond me--or maybe they don't remember and have to spend a lot of time
online checking and rechecking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess
that is what a smart phone is for, or is it?</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Week one was fun.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hopefully week two will be just as fun and just as successful.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-42337575834856150592014-09-22T23:49:00.000-04:002014-09-22T23:58:00.642-04:00Fantasty Hockey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JeaBeOWMpd8/VCDtr97MhAI/AAAAAAAADh8/RSBDam8-ymM/s1600/aces5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JeaBeOWMpd8/VCDtr97MhAI/AAAAAAAADh8/RSBDam8-ymM/s1600/aces5.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This year I am joining a Fantasy Hockey League. My strategy lacks hard work and hockey IQ. Hopefully, I will be lucky. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We had to come up with team names. Since my name is Anthony, I decided to play with a bit of alliteration. We also have an Andrew playing--he took Andy's Army.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I decided to call my team The Sarcastic Aces. I chose the above image as my team logo. I considered a bunch of other images. Some are probably too sexist, but so is the internet. The reasons for not choosing the following had to do with cropping it down to size. I might have been able to do it, but a lot of the image would have been lost. Which one would you have chosen?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BcA6hRYK9us/VCDuv6LWYYI/AAAAAAAADiE/ToIaG_UcCuQ/s1600/aces6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BcA6hRYK9us/VCDuv6LWYYI/AAAAAAAADiE/ToIaG_UcCuQ/s1600/aces6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJvo0lJZ3sg/VCDu0WqNnjI/AAAAAAAADiM/OA4SyvzwHpU/s1600/aces4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fJvo0lJZ3sg/VCDu0WqNnjI/AAAAAAAADiM/OA4SyvzwHpU/s1600/aces4.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aiMuo_ViT_k/VCDu5pIzaRI/AAAAAAAADiU/gl3teh9QubQ/s1600/aces2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aiMuo_ViT_k/VCDu5pIzaRI/AAAAAAAADiU/gl3teh9QubQ/s1600/aces2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-8231728627665165632014-08-31T09:54:00.002-04:002014-08-31T09:58:14.519-04:00Cycling: What I Have Learned So Far<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FWTH1KfpJUs/VAMnzbtOaZI/AAAAAAAADeA/2ES3KtzUr-A/s1600/magazine2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FWTH1KfpJUs/VAMnzbtOaZI/AAAAAAAADeA/2ES3KtzUr-A/s1600/magazine2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BrKgjxDtvyE/VAMoP7aFc7I/AAAAAAAADeY/Zf5ecG-DGmk/s1600/magazine1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BrKgjxDtvyE/VAMoP7aFc7I/AAAAAAAADeY/Zf5ecG-DGmk/s1600/magazine1.jpg" height="200" width="149" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
As I push ever farther into the world of cycling I have
learned lots of fascinating things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
have been thinking of getting a new bike, but with winter approaching (add as
many Game of Thrones quotes as you want here) I am wondering if I should wait.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a result of this indecision, I have been
doing a lot of research.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Not far from where I live, there exists a 15 km
or so (it is longer, but construction issues for bridges and such has blocked
off part of the trail until next year).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have ridden it a couple of times and it was amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want to read about my ride and see
some great pictures, please click on the link here: <a href="http://todaysperfectmoment.wordpress.com/2014/08/25/august-24-2014-the-nokiidaa-trail/">http://todaysperfectmoment.wordpress.com/2014/08/25/august-24-2014-the-nokiidaa-trail/</a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->There are a huge number of bike shops in my
area, and along my commute path, and near my work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had no idea cycling was so popular.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I was young, only children rode
bikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The upside of this is lots of
places to shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The downside is that
even places which sold reasonable bikes now have some higher end bikes, and
prices seem quite high.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean, I have
seen bikes which cost as much as my car did when I bought it new.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_pcQeR39smQ/VAMn37XUmlI/AAAAAAAADeI/eSxs6XEJ7uY/s1600/magazine3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_pcQeR39smQ/VAMn37XUmlI/AAAAAAAADeI/eSxs6XEJ7uY/s1600/magazine3.jpg" height="200" width="151" /></a><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->There are a lot of magazines devoted to the
hobby/pursuit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have counted about 10,
and I am sure there are more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That's
incredible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whoever said the printing
medium was done was obviously wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Despite the complaints of these magazines just being glossy catalogues
that push expensive and unnecessary products on the gullible, there is some
decent writing between the pages.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->There is a crapload of extras for the cycling
crowd.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is all of it necessary?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is some of it vanity driven?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Absolutely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does it affect me..... sadly, I
have to answer yes.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5doqip-W-Ec/VAMn34vYMyI/AAAAAAAADeM/cqi7LWgCNM8/s1600/magazine4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5doqip-W-Ec/VAMn34vYMyI/AAAAAAAADeM/cqi7LWgCNM8/s1600/magazine4.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->I like riding a bike much more than going to a
gym.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seems pretty obvious, but that is
what fuels the decision to buy a nice bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Living in a climate which produces bone chilling cold and snow for a
large part of the year doesn't help.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Summing it all up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
am definitely interested in this hobby.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Where I take it from here, only time will tell.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-3440633766206437252014-08-17T21:19:00.003-04:002014-08-17T21:19:48.292-04:00RIP Television
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tkrd5RZsJ5I/U_FUkRAnG3I/AAAAAAAADaw/7Icmvl-mzsE/s1600/tv1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tkrd5RZsJ5I/U_FUkRAnG3I/AAAAAAAADaw/7Icmvl-mzsE/s1600/tv1.jpg" height="320" width="315" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Is television finished?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Of course it isn't, but are we in the midst of its decline? </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I was out riding my bike around today, trying to decided if
I should buy a new TV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found a couple
that I am interested in, and if I bought them today, I wouldn't have to pay
tax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I couldn't decide if I should spend
900 bucks on a new TV and sound equipment, or if I should save the money for
the cool bike that I want to buy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(feel
free to comment--but I have about 1 hour to make this decision).</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
While riding I stopped to talk to a woman who was also
riding, but taking a rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She mentioned
that she loved watching Netflix on her laptop, and was planning on throwing out
her TV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn't ask her if she would
give it to me, but not that I think about it, maybe I should have.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
The point being, I know a lot of people would rather pay a
small fee and their internet provider rather than traditional cable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they had sports on Netflix, I am sure a
lot of us would do the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If they
make more TV series for Netflix only, would more people rather watch them?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don't have the answers to these
questions--and I am still wrestling with the TV debate, but I guess only time
will tell.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe this is the beginning
of the end of television as we know it.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-58753447001990055452014-08-02T22:50:00.000-04:002014-08-02T22:50:19.761-04:00Back in the Saddle Again
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Okay, I succumbed to tool lust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I bought the bike repair stand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I admit it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And yes, I have been to several bike shops.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I probably don't need the big box of tools,
because I have lots of other ones.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
The good news is that I have so far resisted the urge to buy
a new bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I used the bike stand to
tune up my neglected bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I feel
pretty good.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I even took the bike out today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I realized three things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">I, in
fact, do love riding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It felt great
to get the bike moving at a good speed.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">My
cardio is terrible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Despite losing
some weight, I really need to up my cardiovascular training.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fortunately, that was the reason for
getting on the bike again in the first place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why go to the gym and get on an exercise
bike when I can bike on an actual road.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">When
you fall, or crash, it still hurts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yes, in my first bike ride in a couple of years, I had minor
accident.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was cutting through a
catwalk that, rather than paved, consisted of rectangular concrete
sidewalk patio stones (or something like that).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They had spread apart in the centre,
leaving a gap just big enough for my front tire to find.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Escaping it resulted in a collision with
a chain link fence, some scrapes, and a probable bruise.</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">On the plus side, I was rewarded with an encouraging
number on the scale as well.</span>Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-46687688307937897542014-07-16T18:06:00.000-04:002014-07-16T18:06:41.171-04:00Hobbies Lead to Tool Lust
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Once again I find myself in a hobby conundrum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only good thing is that I recognize it,
and might be able to escape this one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>However, I am not really sure.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I used to love riding my bicycle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I rode all over the place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This might have a lot to do with the fact
that I didn't have a car, but I am pretty sure that isn't all of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know I loved the feeling of speed and
power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I remember once thinking I could
be in the Tour de France.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was never
that good, but every boy has to dream.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-40WfJclMjr0/U8b20AKC_kI/AAAAAAAADXE/EEPwXVyu3Ck/s1600/bike1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-40WfJclMjr0/U8b20AKC_kI/AAAAAAAADXE/EEPwXVyu3Ck/s1600/bike1.jpg" /></a>I have always owned a bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When I had a job as a teenager, I took my bike to work every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I had the choice of bus or cycle, I always
chose cycle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I lived in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Japan</st1:place></st1:country-region> I bought
a bike on a whim and had to carry it home on a very packed subway and
train.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This was the kind of thing I
did.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never second guessed decisions
like that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Lately, I have been thinking about getting back on my bike
before the dust in the garage consumes it completely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It would certainly help with the fitness part
of my diet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, being dusty, it
is going to require a bit of maintenance, and that is where the dilemma comes
from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could pay someone to do it for
me, or I could do it myself.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I know that I would rather do it myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, it is a mechanical job, but it doesn't
seem that hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I did what I always
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I checked the internet and found
lots of good resources and tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you
see where I am going with this?</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Regular readers of this blog (if there are any) know that I
have tool equipment lust to a terribly high degree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes, I love hobby tools more than the
hobby itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought I was strange,
but after reading other blogs and internet forums, I know I am not the only
one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus, I am one of those guys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think tools are cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want them, and I want good ones.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vU2KS6Kxa9I/U8b23rHXUjI/AAAAAAAADXM/1-cGs0i6H_Q/s1600/bike3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vU2KS6Kxa9I/U8b23rHXUjI/AAAAAAAADXM/1-cGs0i6H_Q/s1600/bike3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
My current lust features two things:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A bike stand for working on the bike, and a
dedicated set of tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, there
are some really flashy ones out there, but I have settled on these two.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact that they come in sexy anodized blue
is just a coincidence--or is it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Perhaps, I really don't need these things, but I scratched the itch, and
I am now I am starting to obsess.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
I probably have enough tools that I only need a few
specialized ones to do any repair that I want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I also don't need sexy blue tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Plain ones will do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As for the
bike stand, while not necessary, it certainly would be handy.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
The next deadly step is to go to a bike shop (rather than
the internet) to see what they have.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
might succumb and regret it, but what else can I do.</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-52954109067789663782014-07-13T11:54:00.000-04:002014-07-13T11:54:45.413-04:00The Latest Hobby Itch: Arduino
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uU27_Cq7s2w/U8KrPArSSxI/AAAAAAAADW0/CXHGaSrqilw/s1600/arduino2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uU27_Cq7s2w/U8KrPArSSxI/AAAAAAAADW0/CXHGaSrqilw/s1600/arduino2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I know I shouldn't do it, but I've got the itch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have become obsessed--no, that's not right.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The word is too strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Okay, I've become intrigued by Arduino,
though I am not sure why.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I can
explain how it happened.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I was looking for a new project.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Actually first I was working on my decision
making processes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is why I read a
book that differentiated between gain and pain tasks, and how we put off gain
tasks in favour ending pain tasks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
book recommended scheduling time for gain tasks, and not worrying about how
long they take, or whether they every get finished or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sounded wonderful to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(If I can figure out how to do it, I will put
a link to the book in my Amazon store at the side of the page)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
So, despite having lots of these tasks, I decided I wanted
something new.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kind of a silly thing,
but that is how my mind works.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is
how I started writing this (and three other) blogs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If nothing else, my typing skills have gotten
better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I thought I would like to do
some sort of science/technical project.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
In days past, I would have gone to the Efton Science
Store.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Alas, that has disappeared, and I
had no idea where to look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, I
consulted my fallback position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
checked Amazon and searched for "project kits".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is where I found Arduino.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just like a boy, I saw a kit full of
interesting parts (all the bells and whistles), and thought, WOW!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I need that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Though, in truth, I was not overly clear on what it was.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4kK4MWHXd0/U8KrMEWBiWI/AAAAAAAADWs/dXy_EVMGF1s/s1600/arduino1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R4kK4MWHXd0/U8KrMEWBiWI/AAAAAAAADWs/dXy_EVMGF1s/s1600/arduino1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You've got to admit, this is cool.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
After some YouTube videos, which are a tech nerd's dream, I
am still interested, though perhaps overwhelmed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is probably too complicated, but I am as
fascinated and overconfident as I am nervous and confused.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I consider this a normal state when thinking
about a new hobby.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: justify;">
So, I ask you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have
you had any experience with Arduino?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can
you tell me anything about it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would
really like your help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, if you know
anybody with experience, could you send them to this blog to help me before I
spend all my money and end up with a desk full of electronic bits and
pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344497887602714563.post-9542754071375712462014-06-15T07:44:00.001-04:002014-06-15T07:44:45.740-04:00World Cup Thoughts
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jiPtE_Rc8Vw/U52GxtyQDvI/AAAAAAAADRU/CpStZ-2d21Y/s1600/soccer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jiPtE_Rc8Vw/U52GxtyQDvI/AAAAAAAADRU/CpStZ-2d21Y/s1600/soccer.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
World Cup season is upon us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My television is full of games, repeats of those games (condensed and
not condensed) and a whole lot of commentary about those games.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My students, often proudly wearing their
nation's jerseys or waving flags, are chatting non stop about the game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have begged me to watch the game in
class on at least one occasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
suspect in the coming weeks, this will become a regular occurrence.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
There are positives and negatives to all of this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is great to see such enthusiasm in people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a hum in the air, and electric vibe
if you will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In most cases, I can tell
they are talking about the World Cup, even though I can't hear what they are
saying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are either discussing the
latest controversial calls, the penalties or lack of penalties, the game, or
making plans to watch the game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All in
all, that's pretty exciting.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IUvbdjEeCoU/U52Gz-gGcEI/AAAAAAAADRc/6qA_6ZwKXD0/s1600/soccer2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IUvbdjEeCoU/U52Gz-gGcEI/AAAAAAAADRc/6qA_6ZwKXD0/s1600/soccer2.jpg" /></a>There are a few negatives, sadly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One downside is that my students are not
really paying attention to school.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
begging to watch the game which seemed cute on the first day, will grow pretty
tiring by the end of it all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
Also, probably since I am not a fan, the marketing looks
rather insincere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the Olympic
hockey was on, the sports channels proudly proclaimed it "our
game".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the Soccer World Cup,
the same station is calling it something similar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While I guess it might be true for some, it
doesn't ring true for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It just seems
like shameless marketing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course,
what this means is that I am a victim of marketing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They manipulated me before, and now they are
manipulating someone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess I am
more upset at myself than them.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
In the end, I hope my students and everyone else enjoys this
month of soccer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope no ill feelings
are created by these games.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope this
tournament creates some happiness in the world.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<br />
Jackofallhobbieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06461830980241218802noreply@blogger.com1