Jeffrey Scott's - Best of the Blog - 2014

Good news and bad news this year. Then more bad news followed by mediocre news. Then there is... Oh never mind, let me just get to the point. Last year I challenged myself to have at least something produced in each category; r.a.n.t., poetry and photography. I gave it a good try for a few months, but soon found it to be quite the challenge. My blogging was so much of a challenge in fact, that for a few months the only entries offered were from a few guest bloggers. So I not only failed in my goal for the year but I almost allowed my blog to come to an end. But the good news is I didn't. Since my blog hiatus, I have strived to do what I do best, r.a.n.t. away. But I did do something different this year, I started to summarize each week with a poem. Like always, there are some I absolutely love, and others I totally despise. So which ones do I enjoy? And what is the best way for me to let you in on which I feel are the best and most entertaining blog entries for the past year? You guessed it, I've selected what I feel are the Best of the Blog of 2014. If you find a topic that interests you, just click the link and read away. I'll be very interested to hear what you think of it.

And, as always, leave a comment, share on your social media page, "like" it or just email me with your thoughts. I'm always looking for input, always looking for people who are willing to guest blog and always willing to post run on sentences. Thanks for reading. I truly hope you enjoy what you find here.


January
Photography
Fun With Colours - Experimented with photographing colours.
Poetry
Accidental Wrap - I hate when I spill my coffee.
R.A.N.T.
Chit Chat - I find it hard to "Chit-Chat"
Guest Blogger
(Professor Sanee) No Go Greyhound - Sanee describes a horrible experience on the bus. Awful and humorous at the same time.


February
Photography
Ground-hog Day Filming Location - Woodstock Illinois
R.A.N.T.
Super Bowl 48 Review - More precisely, commercial review.
Guest Blogger
(Jenni Long) Making Plans - Tips on being a responsible guest.


March
R.A.N.T.
Madness in March - I try my hand at guessing who will win March Madness. SPOILER ALERT! - I don't do very well.
The Eternal Winter - What I hate and love about Winter.


April
Poetry
Holding Hands - A poem I wrote for my dad.
Super Man - What I would do if I were super.
National Poetry Month - A month of increased poetry activity inspired this.
Pitaya - Have you ever tried this odd fruit?
Humming Bird - One of my favourite photos couple with a poem about my favourite bird.
R.A.N.T.
Showing Appreciation - How and when should one thank another? Find out here.
Have You Turned it Off & On Again? - It's always fun when you are having computer problems.


May
R.A.N.T.
Take Me Out to the Ballgame - Go to the game, bring your wallet.


June
R.A.N.T.
Guest Bloggers
(Charles Winthrop) A Thing of Beauty - Part 140 - What is beauty? Is it the same as value?


July
R.A.N.T.
Guest Bloggers
(Professor Sanee) The Impossible Girl - What does it mean for something to be 'impossible'?


August
R.A.N.T.
Guest Bloggers
(Jenni Long) Stop Being Insecure - Jenni answers reader questions ala Dear Abby


September
Poetry
The Fool - Who thinks they are special? Only the fool.
R.A.N.T.
Random Rants II - For once, I let many random people rant away. I follow up with my own replies.


October
Poetry
Spider - I wrote this after I saw a spider in my bathroom.
R.A.N.T.
Getting Lost - I'm always frustrated when I get lost.
Guest Bloggers
(Charles Winthorp) The American Radio - Part 41 - Charles shares his notes of songs currently playing on the radio.


November
Poetry
Socks on Fox - A Dr. Suess inspired poem.
R.A.N.T.
Where Do the Socks Go? - Really, where do they go?


December
Poetry
Stay - Do you like to roam or stay put?
Winters Door - Please close the door. Especially in Winter.
R.A.N.T.
Open Door Policy - My solutions to help others remember to close doors in Winter.


Most Read Blog Posts of 2014
Top 10 Blog Articles of 2014: January - June (According to Web Hits)
1.) 417 - R.a.n.t. - Super Bowl 48 Review - 02/02/14
2.) 318 - Poem - Psychrolutes Marcidus - 04/23/14
3.) 153 - Poem - Drizzly Days & Tuesdays - 04/08/14
4.) 152 - Poem - Coati Mondi - 04/16/14
5.) 133 - R.a.n.t. - Cud Chewin' - 02/23/14
6.) 128 - Photography - Woodstock Illinois; Groundhog Day Filming Location - 02/02/14
7.) 90 - R.a.n.t. - Spring Ahead - 03/09/14
8.) 81 - R.a.n.t. - No Go Greyhound - 01/12/14
9.) 72 - R.a.n.t. - Leave the Despising to Us - 01/19/14
10.) 72 - R.a.n.t. - Done With American Football - 01/05/14

Top 10 Blog Articles of 2014: July - December (According to Web Hits)
1.) 83 - R.a.n.t. - The Impossible Girl - 07/13/14
2.) 72 - R.a.n.t. - Random Rants II - 09/28/14
3.) 58 - R.a.n.t. - Open Door Policy - 12/14/14
4.) 54 - R.a.n.t. - Stop Being Insecure - 08/24/14
5.) 48 - R.a.n.t. - Getting Lost - 10/06/14
6.) 47 - R.a.n.t. - Don't Put Me In A Box - 10/12/14
7.) 42 - R.a.n.t. - Where Do the Socks Go? - 11/16/14
8.) 41 - Poem - Spider - 10/02/14
9.) 40 - R.a.n.t. - Shiny Happy People - 12/07/14
10.) 38 - R.a.n.t. - Abandoned - 11/02/14

Somebody

I'm somebody!
And so are you.
Why worry and fret,
and seek others to please?

Like the kids on the corner,
sunglasses askew,
they want to impress friends,
but mostly themselves.

If they could see how funny
they look in my eyes.
Would they care?
Would they dare?

A terrible fright
somebody becomes.
Worrying about others,
but nobody cares.

J.A.Scott

cOOl kids

R.a.n.t. of week 12/28/14

I remember back in high school of how much I longed to fit in and be one of the cool kids. No, I never did become a cool kid. I never had the latest trends in clothes, didn't own a pair of sunglasses, wasn't even 'hip' or in touch with the awesome 'hits' on the radio. But that didn't stop me from wanting to be one of the cool kids. One of the ones who it seemed everyone looked up to. One of the ones everyone was talking about in a positive light and were perhaps an inspiration to others. Or the one others wanted to follow. But no; that was never me. I never walked the straight line they did, my heart fell behind their heartbeat. The cool kids were always invincible, and I was always in the background. They were living the good life and couldn't see what I was going through. You might say they were driving the fast cars in the fast lane.

But I'm older now and things change when you are older. Don't they? When a person gets older, they never care too much about fitting in or being one of the "cool kids" any more. And yet, life seems to find a parallel for us. No matter how old we get, there is always something we aspire more for. It's ingrained in our system. Without the need to improve or hope for something better, we fail to try and improve ourselves. So we need to ignore those 'cool kids' and concentrate on improving ourselves. Not worrying about others. Reminds me of a poem from Emily Dickinson

I'm nobody! Who are you?
Are you nobody, too?
Then there's a pair of us -- don't tell!
They'd banish -- you know!

How dreary to be somebody!
How public like a frog
To tell one's name the livelong day
To an admiring bog!

But I mislead you before. There are some grown-ups who still long to be the cool kids. They form their little 'cliques' and include or exclude people into their social functions based on whether others are 'cool' or not. It's annoying because it causes divisions and feelings of resentment. Not from me, mind you. I'm nobody and happy to be that way. It would be dreary to be 'somebody' as Emily would tell me. Perhaps one day, the 'cool kids' will come to realize they are not as cool as they thought they were. Will they strive to better themselves? We shall see. Ribbet!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
For the record: Resident music lover and part time blog contributor, Charles Winthrop, has requested I update my blog entry to point out a portion of the r.a.n.t. above contains remarks plagerised from the song "Cool Kids" performed by Echosmith.(As if you couldn't tell from the blog photo or title).

Charles Winthrop is a Washington
state writer & D.J. His interests
include music (both modern and
classical) and is a fine art connoisseur.
His articles have appeared in various
magazines including, 'Art Beautiful',
'Music of the Renaissance', and 'The Walla Walla Whistler'.

Spock, I Am

On a planet far away.

Lives a race so very rare.

They neither laugh in sheer delight,

nor other moods of great despair.

The Vulcan Spock was very keen.

He daily had to fight the urge.

Emotions what he felt inside.

'Twas this he strived so hard to purge.

Half human was he, did you know?

So meditation was the key.

Don't debate how emotions are a prize.

'Cause logically he'd disagree.

Vulcans thought a purge was best.

For their history, a violent time.

Anger, madness, gloomy moods,

soon became a planet crime.

Happiness was also gone,

and other feelings bringing joy.

Emotionless they proved to be,

which thusly angered Doc McCoy.

J.A.Scott

Spock, I Am Not

R.a.n.t. of week 12/21/14

Years ago, (let's say over 25) I was dealing with some traumatic things in my life. As the daft, emotionally, awkward teen I was at the time, I rarely allowed my emotions to surface. Or to be more precise. I never placed them on display. I would hold everything in. Unlike Spock, it wasn't really intentional, it was just something I did. I hadn't really noticed till one day my brother was upset with me for not being more emotionally distraught about what we were going through. I remembered him yelling at me, "You're Spock!" as though it were an insult of ultimate shame. I always find it somewhat funny. Though to be honest, I don't recall laughing about it at the time. I most likely held that in as well.

It was probably about the same time I made the concious decision not to write poetry. I considered it too "girly" and saw no point to it. As I recall, any of the poetry I wrote at that time was forced upon me through school courses. One of the first poems I wrote (if not the first) turned out to be a favourite of several people, though I never truly liked it. You can find that poem in my collection on this site. It's found HERE. To this day, I'm still unsure how I feel about it.

I was the same for many years, but as time goes on, one changes. For instance, I'm more in touch with my emotions and I proudly put them on display. I embrace each emotion and not ashamed of any. If I'm happy and I know it..... Why did I suddenly start singing? If I'm happy, I show it. If I'm sad, I show it. If you don't like it, too bad, I can't help that. But I also do poetry now too. I've found it to be expressive and beautiful or depressing and thoughtful. At times you can do more in a few lines of poetry than you can in a few paragraphs of prose. Poetry can be de-constructed and interpreted different ways. And that's partially why I'm not afraid of my emotions and will display them, I'm not worried about how others perceive me. Sure, some may see me in my gloomy moods and think that's all that Jeffrey Scott is, but how wrong they would be. As most of my readers here know, I'm also a very funny person and do much to express that as well. Whatever the mood, that's who Jeffrey Scott is, but it's never all-inclusive. Each mood is just a portion of the package. We are all happy, sad, gloomy, grumpy, excited, pensive, excited, stressed, courageous, amused, fearful or surprised from time to time. I have found a way to embrace each emotion and use each emotion. If I'm sad, I'll keep myself sad and use it. I'll write poetry, or just explore the emotion as much as I can. Others, like Spock, will just hold it in, angry at others for not feeling how they want them to feel.

Also, I am not:

Tuvok

I may seem distant at times, but I'm not unfamiliar with having fun. I have a large assortment of games at home; be them video, card or board games. You can always find something fun to do at my house.

T'Pol

I may not seem very adventuresome at times, but I'm always willing to try something new. Like travelling alone overseas. I just love doing that now. I'm also not afraid of trying new foods, even if I know I won't like it. And trust me, I've been served some really odd things.

Saavik

Humour may be a difficult concept, but I simply adore it. Love to have fun and play humorous tricks on people. Also like throwing in a few "Easter Eggs", even if for my own enjoyment.

T'Pau

I'm a big fan of 80's music as everyone knows. But it's not the only lyrical muse capable of captivating and inspiring my heart and soul. Jazz, classical, modern top 40, pop, rock, local, the list could go on.

Winter's Door

An open door
in Winter is,
annoying as
a math pop-quiz.

Keep the door closed
if you can.
At least for me
that is the plan.

I do not like
a chilly breeze.
So help me out now
if you please.

You'll find for me
it's not okay.
To wait out Winter
in dismay.

If you need a lesson
I will teach.
Don't be surprised
if it's a speech.

I resist the urge
for me to hire.
A doorman's not
what I require.

Perhaps it's time
for me to weld,
the door secured...
I am compelled.

Office can through
a window stroll,
while neighbour upstairs
slides down a pole.

Or ask my grandma
to sit and stare,
and tsk those daft,
who boldly dare

to leave the door
open, so taboo.
Annoying as a
monkey throwing poo.

J.A.Scott

Open Door Policy

R.a.n.t. of week 12/14/14

Here's an interesting little fact. When the front door is open in the Midwestern states during winter, cold air blows in. Did you know that? Apparently it's news to some people, primarily others in the same apartment as me. The problem is, one of the tenants lives upstairs and away from the back door and the rest of the uninformed people work for the business which also uses the same door. Additionally, the outside door is next to my kitchen door and when the outside door is left open cold air rushes into my kitchen under the door.

Suggestions on how to resolve the situation are simple enough.
1.) Ignore the problem. It'll go away in about four months.
2.) Move
3.) Approach each person and instruct them on how to close a door.
4.) Every time someone enters or leaves, open my apartment door and slam the outside door loudly.
5.) Put up a sign that reads, 'This door does not close itself. I've asked it to do so many times, but it refuses. Can you assist?"
6.) Hire a doorman
7.) Administer electro-shock therapy to those unable to figure out how to close a door.
8.) Ever time someone successfully closes the door, walk out and pat them on the head, telling them what a good boy they are (or girl) and how proud I am of them.
9.) Weld the door shut. I can use my front door. The office can use a window. Upstairs tenant can slide down a pole like Batman used to do.
10.) Pay an older lady to sit by the door and tsk people who leave the door open. She will reply with. "No, don't worry about me. I LIKE the door open blowing cold air on my feet."
11.) Train a monkey to sit on the steps and throw poo at anyone who does not close the door.

Did I miss any?

Dreary Gloomy People

Dreary, gloomy, people crying.
Hiding in the house.
Laying on the ground.

Dreary, gloomy, people trying.
Sitting in the dark.
A whimper is their sound.

Woe is me,
dreary as can be.
Gloom is all,
that I can see.

Dreary, gloomy people crying...
crying in cupped hands.
Another day,
another scar.

J.A.Scott

Shiny Happy People

R.a.n.t. of week 12/07/14

One of the worst things a person can deal with is depression. Wait, no. I take that back. There is one thing worse than being depressed. It's when you are depressed and Guy Smiley is standing there telling you things are not 'as bad as all that'. It's annoying enough to be depressed, but when someone tells you to 'buck up' or 'look on the bright side of life' it's as if they are telling you, 'you are not trying to be happy', 'it's your own fault you are not happy' or 'maybe if you tried a little harder you'd be happy'. Even if their comment is well intended, the depressed person can take it that way. It's a real struggle to NOT feel that way. Additionally, we each deal with things in different ways. One person may deal with depression better than another, but that same person may be more prone to freaking out when seeing a bug crawl across the kitchen floor. The worse part really isn't that they are telling us to feel a certain way. I mean the depressed person doesn't always want to feel depressed. Who doesn't want to feel happy? But when a shiny happy person is standing over you, and you feel the world is caving in, it can be a bit much. Here you are thinking about something sad and someone walks up with bright smile on their face. "Hey, buck up! Put a smile on your face!" In a way, this sort of thing happens to me at work when I answer the phone. I'll be depressed about something in particular and when someone calls they ask, "How you doing?" Just annoying.

So in protest, I've decided to rewrite the lyrics to the R.E.M. song 'Shiny Happy People'. I hope Charles Winthrop doesn't find out. He hates Weird Al, and he hates it even more when I 'destroy' a song. Hmmm, wonder if this would depress him. "Cheer up!" I'll tell him, as I stroll away whistling.


Dreary Gloomy People

♫ Dreary Gloomy People Crying ♪

♫ Hiding in the house... gloomy... people.
Laying on the ground... crying... trying.
Hear that whimper sound? Dreary.. Woe is me. ♪

♫ Dreary, Gloomy, People in cupped hands.
Dreary, Gloomy People in cupped hands.
Dreary, Gloomy People Crying. ♪


Okay, that's enough, I've made my point. I know most won't fully understand this rant. So be it, I'm not bothered. It's just something I have to deal with from time to time. So for those that have no idea what it's like, enjoy the music videos below. And remember, if you're crying, you're not trying (to be happy). Or so I've been told.

The Spice Store

I had a chip,

how it was bland.

Slightly better,

than munching sand.

Was boring as,

a plate of rice.

I greatly need

some special spice.

Now my palate,

I'll put at ease.

by switching to,

Doritos cheese.

Or sample curry

if I was dared

Is this too much,

should I be scared?

I may have said

this all before.

Doritos needs

their own spice store.

J.A.Scott

Stay

Never wander,
never roam.
Always sticking close to home.

Do not leave,
and do not quit.
Like a good dog, sit, sit, sit.

How I love stability,
though a fanciful little dream.
I've had enough reality.
That's enough! I want to scream.

Time to settle,
I implore.
You do not like it? There's the door.

Off you wander,
off you roam.
always seek a better home.

J.A.Scott

The Spice of Life

R.a.n.t. of week 11/30/14

As you know, there are many things in this world that enrage me enough to rant about them. But did you know there are many things I feel are not important enough to rant about? Things that just make me wonder, pondering what if, why not or how come? Usually, it's simple stupid stuff. Why do I love watermelon flavoured candy but not watermelons themselves? Why can my home coffee pot never make coffee as rich as Starbucks? Why are some friends addicted to Star Wars but refuse to give Doctor Who a try? How come there are no Doritos flavoured spices?

Okay, I take back what I said about not wanting to complain. If you ask me, Doritos flavoured spices only make a lot of sense. Really, what are Doritos without the flavouring? Just nacho chips. What fun is that? Without the flavouring, they are as boring as eating vanilla flavoured ice cream. Yawn! (Another rant for another time).

What could be better than adding a little nacho cheese flavouring to a casserole? Some Taco flavouring on top of a burger? Maybe a chicken breast spiced with cool ranch? Am I over-thinking this? I can't be the only one. Believe it or not I actually have some strong support in high places. Did you know Taco Bell regards Doritos in such high regard they have tacos flavoured after the chip called Doritos Locos Tacos? And they have been so popular Doritos in turn produced a chip flavoured after the Doritos Locos Tacos? Huh? I'm confused and I think my head just exploded. But at least I have support the Doritos flavour spices can be added to more than just chips. So, what other Doritos flavours would you like to see in spice form? Here are a few of my suggestions.

Spicy Sweet Chili

Intense Pickle

Coconut Curry

Late Night BBQ

Olive

Tomato & Onion Salad

Tuna

Citrus

Andes Rock Salt

Yoghurt & Mint

Your Guess Is As Good As Mine

Sit Ubu, Sit

R.a.n.t. of week 11/23/14

Ever get that feeling you have to stay. Staaaaaaay. STAY! Like a dog? Sometimes I feel that way. In my (most recent) case, I feel as thought I'm staying in the same place for the sake of my kids. First the back story:

When I was married, my wife liked to move continually. She could never stay in the same place. Doing a quick mental note, I count eight different places we lived at within thirteen years. So the last place we were living in at the time of the divorce, I've remained in. To some point, I always thought it would be good for the boys. Since the divorce, their mother has lived in three different places while I'm still in the same place. But like my reasoning for always giving in and moving when the wife wanted to move, it's the same reason I have not moved since the divorce. I've done so for other people. When I was married and she wanted to move, I relented and allowed her to look for another place. She always had a list of reasons why we needed to move. She had a few good points and I tried to keep peace in the family. Then, about a year before our divorce she wanted to move again but by this time I refused. It wasn't long after this the Sheriff showed up at my place of business on our 13th wedding anniversary to hand me her divorce petition. So now I am approaching my 9th un-anniversary and I have stayed. Mostly because I always wanted to give my children stability. Hoping they always had a place that would always feel like home.

Of course my children have now moved on themselves, pretty much living with their mother full time. So the decision now surfaces. Do I move or do I stay? That just brings up other questions. Do I need to move? Am I okay with where I am? Should I look for something better, smaller or different neighbourhood? Where would I go? So many good questions. I think for now, I'm going to stay where I am, sit still. I've got good neighbours, a fully stocked bar in the basement, and am comfortable with my surroundings. And to be honest, I'm really not looking forward to moving again. Eight times in thirteen years has taken a lot out of me. It's been nine years since all those moves and in my own twisted sense of humour, another four years in the same location will sort of negate all those moves that occurred while I was married. And maybe then, I will no longer sit where I am. I can move on.

Socks on Fox

Time we talk of missing socks,

stolen by a ludicrous fox.

He likes to stack all sorts of clocks,

on top of wonky slanted blocks.

Annoying too, is how he talks,

of breaking into the Fort Knox.

He dreams of switching gold for rocks,

all while wearing our stolen socks.

J.A.Scott

Where Do The Socks Go?

R.A.N.T. of week 11/16/14

Why do I feel this is going to be a rant many share? The situation is simple: laundry is done and you are just completing the folding process when you realize there are one too many socks. Or to be more precise, one too few socks. Where did it go? You check the washer, not there. How about the dryer? Empty. Try as you might, you cannot find it. So what's the next step? If you are like me, you throw the sole sock back into the wash and hope next time around it'll find it's missing companion. Have you ever done that? How many times have you tried that with the same sock? After awhile, you begin to realize the sock has gone M.I.A. and you are likely to never see it's mate again. At least not till you throw the remaining one away, then suddenly it comes back. So I figured I'd run a quick poll on twitter to see if anyone else had the same problem and where they figured missing socks go. Like me, most people have assumed the socks have been sucked into a passing black-hole. Very few have suggested the missing sock was still in the dryer. Because really, if it's in the dryer, I'd find it quickly. But no, I almost never recover the misplaced foot clothing. The full results of the poll are shown below, as are the lyrics for a song I wrote. Okay, the song is more a parody, but I still wrote it.

"Where Do The Socks Go"
Lyrics by Jeffrey Scott
- Parody of "What Does the Fox Say"

Pants are clean.
Shirts are dried.
T's are washed.
There's no hide and seek.

Clothes are washed.
And dried too.
Not that you give a hoot.

Sweaters there.
And underwear.
But I wonder now, now now.

There's just one thing,
I do not know.
Where do the socks go?


Okay, that's really all I have. Feel free to continue singing the fox song though. I know you already are.
You're welcome.

Lead A Horse

You can lead a horse to water,

but you cannot make her drink.

She is just a simple trotter.

Plead to one for her own life,

ignores you and then walks away.
Argument just brings you strife.

No matter how you try, you fail,

to motivate the proper course.

Debating is to no avail.

Beat your head against the wall,

some just never learn.

Wisdom you cannot install.

You can lead a horse to water,

but you cannot make her think.

Reasonableness is such a bother.

J.A.Scott

You Can Lead A Horse...

R.a.n.t. of week 11/09/14

You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make him think. Is that how that expression goes? I could be wrong, but it still makes sense. For example, if you were riding in the desert on a horse with no name and you suddenly came to an oasis. You know it's the last chance to drink water for a long time, but you cannot reason with the horse that he better drink as much as he can. No, the horse drinks if he's thirsty. He's not going to think, "Gorsh, no more water? Better drink up." And that's generally how it is in the animal kingdom. But what's interesting is there are many people who are the same way.

A few weeks back I mentioned my brother who, when the going get rough, he gets going. He'll disappear in the middle of the night and you won't see or hear from him again for months or years. No matter what problem a person is facing, running away is hardly ever the best course of action. There are ways to deal with all sorts of problems, and yet this is the solution some people use to deal with their problems. Or better yet, will just complain about them over and over and over again without ever trying to rectify the situation.

Granted, I rant ad nauseam, but it's usually about things I can't change. Of course, my guest blogger Jenni Long always makes sure to point out when I do complain about something I can change. So why do people do it? Why, when faced with a problem are they unwilling to try and fix the problem? Solutions and suggestions can be offered to no avail. Instead of solving the problem, or finding a better solution, after nine days they decide to let the horse run free. Why solve a problem when you can just ignore it? Because when you ignore a problem, it just goes away. Right? RIGHT?

What Is Fair

I live a life so empty,
such a waste of human space.
Boring, dull, petty, worthless,
and no one to embrace.

But cancer took my father.
Made a widow of his wife.
He is loved and dearly missed,
was it fair to take his life?

I daily live with much guilt,
Is it fair? I disagree.
So unjust that he is gone,
Would be more fair if it were me.

J.A.Scott

Abandoned

R.a.n.t. of week 11/02/14

It's an awful feeling to have. I think everyone has felt this at some point in their lives. And different people feel this emotion to different degrees. A child who learns it was adopted because it's parents abandoned it will most likely feel worse than a parent who learns it's child would rather spend more time with his friends. But truly, it always hurts, even if you understand the reasons behind it. As they say, life moves on.

Lately, I've been feeling like this within several layers. At times I'm able to deal with the stress from it all, other days, not so much. Next month It'll be nine years since my wife filed for divorce. Sure, I've been able to deal with that and have been able to move on, for the most part. But there is always some nagging feeling of abandonment when someone you once loved let's you know they are leaving.

Within the past year other things have taken place. One of my brothers has this annoying habit of reuniting with the family every so often, only to sneak away in the middle of the night because he can't deal with things. About two years ago my brother once again reconnected with the family. Most likely because my father was dying. However, earlier last year he did his Amazing Mumford routine and disappeared once again. I haven't heard from him since. He's one of those people who react impulsively to situations instead of sitting down and trying to figure out how to deal with it. So I'm use to this behaviour of his, but it still feels like an abandonment.

Another form of seemingly abandonment is when children finally decide to leave home. Last year, the ex-wife decided to move to another city about a forty minute drive away. No, that's not such a big distance, especially when we agreed to meet half way to exchange children. But within the past few weeks, both of my boys have taken jobs in that city. What this means is, the weekends I'm supposed to have my kids visit me, does not work now. So it can be weeks at a time till I see my kids again. One is still in school, one is not. So with school and work, it'll be a while till I see my youngest. My oldest is now working many hours, and as hinted above, would rather spend time with his friends. Yes, all understandable. Life goes on, life resumes, life continues. But sitting at home alone now makes me feel abandoned many times over.

Other thoughts on this topic include when friends drift apart. Either they are drawn to other people more, or they have stressful lives with too much to do. Friends marry, have children, additional responsibilities, concentrate on a burdensome workload or other matters to attend to and suddenly you are no longer as essential to them as you once were. You let them know you will always be there for them, but it becomes apparent they no long need your reliance. Feelings of abandonment are once again felt.

Yes, I know what you are thinking. 'You need to toughen up, that's life'. Of course it's life and I understand that. But like most of my rants, that doesn't mean I have to like feeling abandoned. Even if it's all in my head.

Early Morning

The city, early morning.
Leaves swaying in the breeze,
rustling,
calming.

Bird of the night, random caw.
A car whizzing past,
then stillness,
alone.

Distant hum of a factory.
Passing train on the tracks.
Fade away,
Silence.

J.A.Scott

The American Radio - Part 41

R.a.n.t. of week 10/26/14

This week I decided to take another break and repost an article written by one of my contributing bloggers, Charles Winthrop. Mostly because this week his series touches on a local radio station.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

So far in this series, I've looked at the origin of the radio as well as the growing and changing evolution of the American radio station. As I continue the exploration this week, I move from information stations to the more mainstream, 'popular' music stations. For this article I'll be looking at a Milwaukee based station, 99.1 The Mix. Details of my findings have been listed below. When looking at this small slice of airplay, it illustrates some interesting data.

First: one needn't wait to long for their favourite song to be replayed. Chances are, when one tunes to the station, ones particular songs of choice will be played within the hour. Given, of course, they are popular, mainstream and modern.

Second: any tune from before 1995 and one will be waiting a while, though a few are still played. Additionally, often requests are taken, an excellent time to get your preferred song played.

For my findings, I took two random days from the week of 10/19/14 between the times of 7:00 and 17:00. Within this time frame, I came up with the following data.

296 song plays
(Averaging less than 15 songs per hour)

Songs most played.
8 - "Am I Wrong" - Nico & Vinz
8 - "Boom Clap" - Charlie XCX
8 - "Love Runs Out" - OneRepublic
7 - "All About That Bass" - Meghan Trainor
7 - "Girls Chase Boys" - Ingrid Michaelson
12% of total airplay

Artists most played.
14 - Katy Perry
(1)California Gurls
(3)Dark Horse
(2)Hot n Cold
(2)I Kissed a Girl
(1)Last Friday Night
(2)Roar
(2)Teenage Dream
(1)The One That Got Away

14 - P!nk
(2)Blow Me One Last Kiss,
(2)Don't Let Me Get Me,
(2)Just Give Me a Reason,
(1)Perfect,
(2)Raise Your Glass,
(1)So What,
(3)Try,
(1) Who Knew

12 - Maroon 5
(4)Animals,
(1)Daylight,
(1)Love Somebody,
(3)Maps,
(1)Moves Like Jagger,
(1)One More Night,
(1)Wake Up Call

12 - OneRepublic
(4)Counting Stars,
(8)Love Runs Out
17% of airplay

Artists having only one song played.
51 - Alex Clare, Anna Kendrick, Beyonce, Black Eyed Peas, Blink 182, Britney Spears, Capital Cities, Christina Aguilera, Christina Perri, D.H.T., Def Leppard, Ellie Goulding, Enrique Iglesias, Green Day, Gwen Stefani, Hoobastank, Imagine Dragons, Jason Mraz, Jessie J, John Mayer, John Mellencamp, Kei$ha, Lady AnteBellum, Marcy Playground, Matchbox 20, Michael Buble, Naked Eyes, Natasha Bedingfield, Nelly, No Doubt, Norah Jones, Oasis, Phillip Phillips, Pitbull, Poison, Police, Rick Springfield, Rixton, Robin Thicke, Ryan Cabrera, Selena Gomez, Sheryl Crow, Soft Cell, Sugarland, The Band Perry, The Fray, The Wanted, Third Eye Blind, U2, UB40, Whitesnake
17% of airplay

Artists having two songs played.
18
11 having the same song - Avril Lavigne, Echosmith, Fleetwood Mac, Florida Georgia Line, Fun, Hot Chelle Rae, John Legend, Magic, Passenger, Plain White T's, Taio Cruz
7 having different songs - Adele, Journey, Kid Rock, Madonna, Neon Trees, Nickleback, Rihanna
12% of airplay

Shortest wait for a replay in a single day.
2 Hours, 20 minutes / Charlie XCX "Boom Clap" (8:47am - 11:07am)

Longest wait for a replay in a single day.
8 hours, 42 minutes / P!nk "Try" (7:57am - 4:39pm)

Interesting to note how songs being played continually only six months ago, have now been relegated to being only single or double plays within a two day time frame. Certainly an indication of the evolution of an American radio station happening before ones very eyes.

Join me next week as I take a look at Indie Rock Stations
Featuring Boston's - 92.5 The River

This excerpt from - 'The Walla Walla Whistler',
used with permission.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Charles Winthrop is a Washington
state writer & D.J. His interests
include music (both modern and
classical) and is a fine art connoisseur.
His articles have appeared in various
magazines including, 'Art Beautiful',
'Music of the Renaissance', and 'The Walla Walla Whistler'.

Thank You

It happened so fast,
with no time to think.
Man behind the wheel,
had too much to drink.

The blood that I bleed,
is certainly red.
as the light you ran through.
Should be you instead.

You quickly drove off,
off into the rain.
I had no time to dwell,
on the horrible pain.

Pain I felt often,
so deep in my heart.
Never ending break,
always tore me apart.

Agony and torture,
weighed in like a brick.
This was much better,
the end came so quick.

Yes, it's finally ended,
the pain is now through.
You killed me tonight.
Thank You

J.A.Scott

It's Not All About You

R.a.n.t. of week 10/19/14

We are often presented with opportunities to either be selfish or selfless. As a child, are we willing to share our treats with others? As an adult, are we willing to allow someone merge into our lane instead of forcing them into the shoulder? As a sit.com. television character, will we simply stand by laughing as an innocent bystander is car-jacked?

Not only can we be selfish to others, we can be selfish to ourselves as well. Take a slob for instance, he's selfish to himself because he allows his laziness to control his life. So he's robbing from himself a chance to lead a clean life. Quite possibly affecting his health, if not his self respect.

Just because a person is an 'adult' doesn't mean they have the ability to do whatever they want in life. Even on a small scale. For example, excluding others is another rant of mine (for another time), but it's also a form of selfishness. When you have certain associates who refuse to accept your invitations and habitually exclude you, it can be frustrating. Especially if the only time you hear from the person is when they need a favour. Ahhh, there we are, the bit of selfishness I was talking about. There is a quote I found online while doing some research for this article. It goes like this. "Don't ask me to do something for you, that you wouldn't do for me." I'm not sure I agree with this quote 100%, but there is a point here. Perhaps this is something we could ask ourselves before asking another person a favour. "If this person asked me to do this for him, would I do it"? Take something simple like a request to run us to the airport when leaving on a business trip. Would we complain if the question were asked of us? Would we be willing to comply? Again, excluding others means we are selfishly thinking of ourselves "This person is good enough to ask favours from, but not good enough for me to associate with."

So selfishness means we are thinking of our own needs. It's a check we should run constantly. If how we act, deprives others of our selflessness we are being selfish. (Duh) And it's something as individuals we should avoid. I have to admit, I forget this at times. Sometimes I'm so wrapped up in trying to acquire something I want, I forget to make sure I'm not neglecting someone else's feelings. Either currently, or potentially in the future. Certainly some food for thought.

Remember: "If you live your life as if everything is about you. You will be left with just that. Just you."

Don't Put Me In A Box

R.a.n.t. of week 10/12/14

I don't want to assume you feel the same way I do on this matter, but I hate when people simply assume something about me instead of finding out exactly my thoughts on the matter. Because let's be honest, when you assume, you make an ass/u/me. You know what I mean? I'll just assume you get it. This seems to happen to me many times. A person will just assume they know what I'm all about, based on knowing one or two things about me. Now it's true I'm a big Science Fiction nerd, but that doesn't mean I'm not into other things. It certainly doesn't mean I can't be coaxed into trying something new.

A few years back I was talking to a buddy about a demolition derby I attended (viewed HERE) and he was like, "But you are not into cars." True, I'm not a gear head, nor will I likely be one in the near future. But the future is a funny thing. It's determined by our actions and what we learn to appreciate. Either something we discover on our own, or introduced to us by our friends. Regulars of my blog will recall I posted photos not to long ago from an auto show being held close to my house. You can view those photos HERE. When I was younger, I had a dream of buying an old jalopy and spending time restoring it. That never came to be, but that doesn't mean I lost my interest in cars, or in doing that. Granted, I'm not very familiar with the operations of a car currently, I have a hard time telling the difference between a tailpipe and the blinker fluid link. In fact, my first car I didn't even know where the gas cap was. I just poured the gas on top of the car in hopes it would soak in somewhere.

The same thing can be said for motorcycles. I've never owned one, don't even particularly like them. But the same friend mentioned before was surprised on one of my recent trips overseas, I attended a motorcycle race on the Isle of Man for a few days. It was actually very exciting and enjoyable. I loved it and would return again. Again, photos of that can be viewed HERE. Another friend had no idea I was into poetry. Well I'm sure you, the reader, know at least that about me. I've currently penned over 170 different poems. So what's the point? I have the "go to" things I'm into, but don't sell me short. I'm willing to try anything new. For years I never thought I would be into karaoke, and now I have my own machine in the bar which I practice on quite frequently. On a related note, (pun intended) just because I have not listed a particular music band among my favourites, doesn't mean I can't grow to like them. I'm hesitant about trying new foods, but when presented with something new, I'll certainly give it a try. Is there an activity I'm not know for being 'into'? That doesn't mean I wouldn't give it a try. Don't just assume because you know one or two things about me, that you know everything about me or all my interests and dreams. That's like putting me in a box, and that just won't do.

BEING PUT IN A BOX - An item stored away for a later time, for a specific reason. And only for that specific reason. I.E. Winter clothing, Summer clothing, toys at a grandparents house, canning supplies, I think you get the idea. I'm more than just a writer with an interest in science fiction.

Getting Lost

R.a.n.t. of week 10/05/14

So I was driving around this weekend with my friends Charley and Sawyer when we became lost. Well, okay, that's stretching the truth a bit. To be honest, I wish I were driving around with friends when I get lost. I'd have others I could place blame on. As it is, I almost always am driving around alone when I'm meeting friends somewhere. Been in the city all my life and there are still times I rely on GPS. So this weekend I missed out on a few things.

To be fair, I did have a great Saturday with my sister and family on our annual trip to Berres Brothers Cafe and also Lindt Outlet. My dad used to go with us too, so we kept him in mind the entire trip. As always, it was an experience, and for a little while we were in control of the moment. Protected from the stress, the noise and hassle of the rest of the weekend. It was our time. But I digress. Getting back to the topic on hand, at least our little jaunt is somewhat related because on our way, I was asked if we should make a turn and I said "Yes". But he driver kept going straight and we missed our exit on the highway. (Boy do I hate when people don't listen to directions). So we had to go the long way around, utilize the GPS, and arrive later than we had planned. But this proves my point. For a brief moment we were 'lost', and yet there were others in the car to which I was able to blame for us not going in the correct direction.

But I had my own direction fails which are clearly my own fault. Saturday evening I was supposed to meet a group of friends at a local park. We have many parks in the area and I can't seem to remember the names of all of them. Well, I couldn't remember the name we were supposed to meet at but I thought I knew the general direction. I took Forest Home Ave as far as I possible could looking for the park in question only to give up and head home. If I were not so phone shy I would have called someone to ask the name of the park, but that's another rant for another time. Again, I realize this is all my fault and I place no blame with anyone else. But I can still be upset with myself can't I? It's not like it happens every day.

The next day, the same thing happened to me. I was supposed to meet some friends for lunch and I did not have the address written down so I just asked for the address. Given the address, I headed over for lunch. What I didn't ask, or failed to notice, was if the address was North or South (Boy do I hate when I don't listen to directions). There is certainly a big different between North 11th street and South 11th street. Driving to what I thought was the address given me, I found an empty lot.  Were we meeting for a picnic in an empty lot? No. I was just on the wrong side of town. (You can see a photo of me lost and driving on the empty lot above). Once again, a victim of my own stupidity.

Spider

He sits upon his silken web,

awaiting just a single tap.

Patient he, throughout the day,

till interrupted from his nap.

A tremor felt, and then he springs

to his victim in the net.

His venom ends another life.

No remorse, no regret.

J.A.Scott

Random Rants - II

R.a.n.t. of week 09/28/14

It's that time of the year again. That's right, I've dusted off and turned on the twitter machine to once again find what other people are r.a.n.t.ing about. You've heard me complain enough in the past, it's time to see what everyone else has been irate over this past month or two while I've been on blog hiatus. Of course, as always, I've added my own thoughts on each topic.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Tearoze
Ok, I've now concluded my twitter rant on behalf of all good and authentic bloggers.
>Sorry I missed it. I must not be a good or authentic blogger. But, I'm just getting started with my rants.

Matt
business not seeing jobs as careers but just temp work
>The CEO of McDonald's might disagree with you.

Rosie G.Whey are Mars Bars so much smaller these days? When I was a kid they were so big you had to carry them in a backpack.
>"Fun Size" has ruined the world and made it less fun. Of course, you could try the candy bar in the link below..
World's Largest Chocolate Bar

Kate D
The price of tea in China.
>Is this a rant about how expensive it is? Or just a statement pointing out that China puts a price on tea?

Crystal Espin
When did it become acceptable for PRs to call you less than 24hrs after sending an email because you haven't responded yet?
>I've learned patience is a virtue. However, some people are far too impatient to learn that.

Dani Torres
I can't stand when professor gets behind on grading, like your the one assigning all of this, if you can't keep up with it then stop
>Some people need to learn patience. (See above).

Allyson
It's fall. 2 months till winter. Of course it's gonna be cold! Maybe you should wear more clothes and stop complaining.
>And just a couple months ago, people were complaining it was too hot. The madness never stops.

Marissa Rebischke
Owning a nice camera doesn't make you a photographer. Much like owning a good set of knives doesn't make you a chef.
>Also, standing in a garage doesn't make you a car. And eating gluten free foods doesn't make you trendy. (See last years random r.a.n.t.s).

Fiona Fussi
I HATE castings where models are treated like cattle. Totally disrespectful and humiliating.
>The looks I get when I tell someone I went to McDonald's for dinner. Totally disrespectful and humiliating. I wonder if that's ever happened in Her World.

kennedie carlson
We know you're in college. We know you drink beer. No need to snapchat it everyday.. nobody from high school cares if you look cool
>Same goes for people and selfies. No need to post what you look like every day. I know what you look like, not cool.

Francesco Pretelli ‏
I cant believe airport wifi is a joke everywhere.
>Not a Boingo fan? I don't blame you. You'd think for the price of a ticket, it could be complimentary. Less peanuts, more wifi.

ashley edgar
Not really sure when not caring about things or people became 'cool', but it's not...Care about people, have dreams, and work hard.
>Though I agree, I hope you don't care I stole your rant. My dream this week is to not work hard and let others do my job for me.

Kim Brown
It is mind boggling to me how rain affects traffic. Just drive, people! And turn on your headlights. Many forgetful folks, it seems.
>Tell me about it. "What is this wet stuff falling from the sky? I better drive like an idiot."

Scott Smith
I hate when I send my friends a text message and they never respond do it. Feels like I'm being ignored.

Stephanie Mertens
If you can drink every weekend but complain you're to broke to do anything else, you should probably reevaluate your life
>Maybe step down from drinking Guinness to Pabst? Of course, if you go that route, may as well skip buying the Pabst all together and just turn on the tap water. Tastes about the same.

SLAMMIN
My hands are clammy, my ears are big, I'm a hairy guy and I'm touchy. I've heard them enough. Every now and then a compliment is nice.
>I liked your rant so I stole it for my blog. Hope that counts as a compliment. Also never forget you're good enough, you're smart enough, and dog-gonnit people like you!

Jaclyn ‏
The technology of this generation has absolutely destroyed the quality of relationships, friendships and human interaction in general.
>Tru dat. I h8 interwebs. B dumbing us all down. But INCYDK I no h8r. C Ya!

Jill Rudison
I absolutely detest doing cardio when the fans are blowing straight down on me. I'm trying to sweat here...grrrrrr
>Perhaps the gym thinks it's not cool to sweat, so they turn the fans on as a courtesy? Still, not cool.

Ahna Kate
Absolutely CAN NOT STAND when other parents judge other kids for their actions when they have no clue about their own.
>Or worse, when they are trying to tell you how to discipline your kids and they don't even have any.

LaToya C ‏
You want your coffee done right? Go to Starbucks because McDonalds will play with your emotions
>Let's not limit our dissatisfaction with McDonald's to just it's coffee, okay?

Martin Ferro-Thomsen
Don't be 15 minutes late for a meeting that you requested. It's more than enough time to decide I don't want to do business with you
>Five minutes would do it for me. Unless they came in with coffee. Then I'd be fine with it. Unless it was from McDonald's. (See above).

Andy Welsh ‏
Sydney yeh you have a nice harbour and beaches but shame you get no time to enjoy them because your stuck in traffic all the time.
>Maybe they are only meant to be looked at as you drive by?

Kelsie Fitz
You have a bf and you talk to like 7282 different guys and you think you're adorable but really you're annoying. sorry
>Talk to 7282 different guys? Are you sure? Haven't I told you a million times to stop exaggerating?

sean
Instead of dropping the "unhealthy" foods from school lunches, why doesn't Michelle just tell kids to take a jog.
>Ever try and get a kid to choose between eating an unhealthy food and taking a jog?

Melissa A.R.
Being sick.
>This is what happens when you eat unhealthy school food and refuse to go out for a jog. (See above)

Broooooke ‏
I hate when people ask "why are you dressed up"? umm maybe because I wanna look cute for myself and actually be confident for once
>To be cute and confident? Or in case you run into Justin Timberlake?

Dave Hale ‏
Pps just need to exercise their manors. It doesn't cost you anything to be polite... That is all..
>I hear Bruce Wayne exercises in his manor. Just don't ask if you can use his gym. That wouldn't be good manners.

linds
just bc someone might have more fat on their body than you doesn't mean they can't be healthier or in better shape
>Fair enough, but I've never seen Jabba the Hut win a footrace.

Bacardi Oakheart
I always think rants say more about the person ranting than the thing they're ranting about anyway.
>My blog must say volumes about me then.

michael
people...an apostrophe + "s" does not make a plural!
>People... they're grammar mistakes using apostraphes is hilarious.

Christina M
Being put on the spot....
>Children are good at doing this. Parents just need to teach their kids basic aspects of decency.

Abdullah
So many little kids these days are spoiled ingrates whose parents couldn't bother to teach them the most basic aspects of decency
>Would you rather see the parents smoking in front of their kids? How crazy would that be?

Formula Frank
Seeing a pregnant woman smoking makes me furious. That poor child doesn't have a chance before its even born
>People still do this? Thought everyone had moved over to those 'vapor' cigarettes.

superozzie
"Vapor" cigarettes. They still stink.
>Not that I disagree with you, but people always find something to complain about. (See below).

enrique29
Derek Jeter haters!
>Hating haters. What could be funnier?

Aaron R
Why they put Jarjar Binks into Star Wars Episodes 1-3?
>To give people something to complain about, to sell more toys, to distract from how annoying Anakin was, take your pick.

Jonathan Morrison
The problem isn’t that the 6 Plus bends the most, it’s the fact that IT DOESN’T BEND BACK.
>Come now, let's be nice. Apple is bending over backwards to give us a decent product.

TMI Memes
I hate when people get mad about my tweets. This is a MEME ACC. IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE FUNNY.

The Fool

The fool dares think
that he is needed.
We laugh then cast him
to the side.

The fool dares think
that he is special.
We are delighted by
his merry joke.

The fool dares think
that he is loved.
We wink in glee
at his festive jest.

The fool dares think
But he is a fool,
and I
                  am a fool.


J.A.Scott