Exercise/Stretch 5+ Days a Week, Body Fat 14%
I'm to the point where pushing my limits in the weight room is causing no morning-after soreness; in other words, I'm back in the groove. Meanwhile my 3-mile runs have been easier as I fill the time reciting Dirty Rotten Scoundrel lines and lyrics. I do need to stretch more - I've been focusing on knee exercises but my back's starting to have that too-tight stiff feeling. The fat-o-meter's been in the 13-14% range.
Healthy Elbow and Knee
The
elbow lets me know it's there after my workouts, but I have stretches
to counteract it so the discomfort should be manageable. The knee
complains in the morning but behaves reasonably well after I warm up.
I think I can finally chalk the "teeth" goal off the list, as I did for the eyes earlier this year, it's the first time I'm down to two troublesome body parts and I still have a quarter left to work on them.
Tutor 800 Hours
September is ahead of last year's pace, with at least 20 students on my roster. Summer was so calm that it's looking unlikely that 800 will be reached unless I work my way up to 40 hours a week, which isn't a great interest of mine. However, it would keep this number as a good goal for next year.
Blog Thanks Weekly
Four straight months of perfect attendance on this goal!
Volunteer For A New Organization
I didn't make a move on this this month. I should be able to hit this one.
Clean House
I got quotes on security lighting for our condominium association's carports, and a proof demonstration of our new street signage.The driveway project is on hold until the carports are finished.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Fiddler On The Run: The Week In Thanks
My routine is to use Mass for reflection about the things I'm thankful for during the past week, so my thoughts usually start in that neighborhood.
Today we had, somewhat unexpectedly, a violinist added to our band a few minutes before Mass started. We had just finished rehearsal, and had nothing set up for an extra musician. It made me thankful for a couple of things.
First, that experience has taught me the value of responding to these situations with wonderment instead of type-A frustration. Traditional Joe would have railed against the idea of a person being inserted into a team without any vetting for talent or personality fit, against the idea of an authority figure ruling without consent, and in a haphazard fashion to boot. So there's a good reason why I'm aiming to strand Traditional Joe in Siberia, because he's an ugly fellow. "I wonder how this will go?" I mused. Rather, "I wonder how God will make this go?" That peace of mind that comes with crediting God for what happens, however crazy the ending might turn out.
Second, and better yet, he was an awesome violin player. Heads were turning throughout the service. I felt like I was in Casting Crowns. If he stays, he'll be an asset. He can play by ear. And on his first day he was a quiet yet polite fellow too. So for one Sunday at least, I'm grateful for Lance.
Priests don't do every sermon (homily, in Catholic-speak). Occasionally as with this week, a deacon will step in and deliver a message. Epiphany has a couple good ones in Mark Cleary and Michael An. It's nice to hear a change of pace. That trio including the pastor is doing a fine job. Their campaign of church renewal has recently given rise to a welcome center that will guide visitors to the right place, a much-needed aid in the highly ritualistic nature of Mass.
Band leader Sean Stevens got his dream role in the musical Rent due to an unexpected cast resignation. Co-leaders Jennifer remains healthy and within a moment of giving birth to Lily. They're in their new house. Things are clicking.
I had twenty students on the docket this week for tutoring. I remember thinking that twenty would be an amazing number to reach, and it's here, and growing. I have a new license plate frame with my logo on it. And I got this entire weekend off, which is by no means what I demand - in a retiree's life every day is a weekend - but it's really nice to have a break after a satisfyingly full week of sessions. Another credit to God's blessings in this ministry of mine is that so far I've never had to say no to a student who asked for help. My schedule has always had just enough openings to make it work. It helped greatly this week when a new and uneasy student called me at noon on Thursday less than 24 hours before his Friday test, and we were able to get in an appointment that night and also the next morning.
In fact, Dena and I made our first visit to ISU's grandly remodeled Hancock football stadium. The night was classically autumn, with just enough warmth and humidity to feel like you were in your living room with a jumbo TV. Watching your alma mater throttle Austin Peay 55-6. And Dena randomly had two of her closest high school friends in the stadium so it was a reunion for her too.
I attended the monthly Leadership McLean County steering committee meeting, and saw inspiring feedback from the first session of the year from participants. September's a honeymoon in LMC - the selection committee's work is through, the adventure is just beginning, the weather is flawless. It's a good time to be around the table.
For some reason I spent very little of this summer outside by the pool, but I've gotten the urge recently and have been reveling in the pristine blue-sky days we've been fed this week. I have about a third of the musical Dirty Rotten Scoundrels memorized, and have been benefited by the fact that my new laptop can actually tap into my wi-fi network from the pool. Good for me, disturbing for any neighbors walking by while I talk to myself. Plus, the annual two-week season of fiercely-biting gnats has come to an end, so peace reigns.
Technology thanks of the week: Tooth bleaching. Improves your appearance and and all you have to do is keep your mouth shut for a half hour. So Dena might say there's a double benefit. :)
I ended the fantasy baseball seasons in 4th, 2nd and 2nd place out of about ten teams. Once again, God's inborn perseverance paid off over the course of a six month season. Meanwhile, my fantasy football team that Yahoo!'s computer picked to finish last in the league with one win, has won three already. That artificial boost of confidence has me riding a high as fantasy basketball drafts come around the corner.
Tomorrow is not only a day for a fresh pair of monthly contact lenses, but also Cupcake's first birthday. She literally causes me to wake up smiling on many days. It's going to be a great week.
Today we had, somewhat unexpectedly, a violinist added to our band a few minutes before Mass started. We had just finished rehearsal, and had nothing set up for an extra musician. It made me thankful for a couple of things.
First, that experience has taught me the value of responding to these situations with wonderment instead of type-A frustration. Traditional Joe would have railed against the idea of a person being inserted into a team without any vetting for talent or personality fit, against the idea of an authority figure ruling without consent, and in a haphazard fashion to boot. So there's a good reason why I'm aiming to strand Traditional Joe in Siberia, because he's an ugly fellow. "I wonder how this will go?" I mused. Rather, "I wonder how God will make this go?" That peace of mind that comes with crediting God for what happens, however crazy the ending might turn out.
Second, and better yet, he was an awesome violin player. Heads were turning throughout the service. I felt like I was in Casting Crowns. If he stays, he'll be an asset. He can play by ear. And on his first day he was a quiet yet polite fellow too. So for one Sunday at least, I'm grateful for Lance.
Priests don't do every sermon (homily, in Catholic-speak). Occasionally as with this week, a deacon will step in and deliver a message. Epiphany has a couple good ones in Mark Cleary and Michael An. It's nice to hear a change of pace. That trio including the pastor is doing a fine job. Their campaign of church renewal has recently given rise to a welcome center that will guide visitors to the right place, a much-needed aid in the highly ritualistic nature of Mass.
Band leader Sean Stevens got his dream role in the musical Rent due to an unexpected cast resignation. Co-leaders Jennifer remains healthy and within a moment of giving birth to Lily. They're in their new house. Things are clicking.
I had twenty students on the docket this week for tutoring. I remember thinking that twenty would be an amazing number to reach, and it's here, and growing. I have a new license plate frame with my logo on it. And I got this entire weekend off, which is by no means what I demand - in a retiree's life every day is a weekend - but it's really nice to have a break after a satisfyingly full week of sessions. Another credit to God's blessings in this ministry of mine is that so far I've never had to say no to a student who asked for help. My schedule has always had just enough openings to make it work. It helped greatly this week when a new and uneasy student called me at noon on Thursday less than 24 hours before his Friday test, and we were able to get in an appointment that night and also the next morning.
In fact, Dena and I made our first visit to ISU's grandly remodeled Hancock football stadium. The night was classically autumn, with just enough warmth and humidity to feel like you were in your living room with a jumbo TV. Watching your alma mater throttle Austin Peay 55-6. And Dena randomly had two of her closest high school friends in the stadium so it was a reunion for her too.
I attended the monthly Leadership McLean County steering committee meeting, and saw inspiring feedback from the first session of the year from participants. September's a honeymoon in LMC - the selection committee's work is through, the adventure is just beginning, the weather is flawless. It's a good time to be around the table.
For some reason I spent very little of this summer outside by the pool, but I've gotten the urge recently and have been reveling in the pristine blue-sky days we've been fed this week. I have about a third of the musical Dirty Rotten Scoundrels memorized, and have been benefited by the fact that my new laptop can actually tap into my wi-fi network from the pool. Good for me, disturbing for any neighbors walking by while I talk to myself. Plus, the annual two-week season of fiercely-biting gnats has come to an end, so peace reigns.
Technology thanks of the week: Tooth bleaching. Improves your appearance and and all you have to do is keep your mouth shut for a half hour. So Dena might say there's a double benefit. :)
I ended the fantasy baseball seasons in 4th, 2nd and 2nd place out of about ten teams. Once again, God's inborn perseverance paid off over the course of a six month season. Meanwhile, my fantasy football team that Yahoo!'s computer picked to finish last in the league with one win, has won three already. That artificial boost of confidence has me riding a high as fantasy basketball drafts come around the corner.
Tomorrow is not only a day for a fresh pair of monthly contact lenses, but also Cupcake's first birthday. She literally causes me to wake up smiling on many days. It's going to be a great week.
Monday, September 29, 2014
What News Anchors Do During Commercial Breaks
Robert Jordan is so businesslike on air... love to see this side of him!
Saturday, September 27, 2014
This Thing Called Sunrise
Last night this night owl just needed to find the sack early. The reasons were unclear. It might have been that Dena had filled my stomach with a tasty late-night pizza. Or that, throughout a day of little eating, I'd spent more time in the sun than usual, capped off by a late-afternoon run in the sun, followed by a tutoring session. At any rate, within 15 minutes of dinner I was zonked on the couch. At some point I groggily stumbled up to bed to continue the snooze.
This morning I stirred to the usual scene of my cat mewing on my chest at 5:30am. But this time I actually found my eyes staying open.
I was confused by a strange red glow in the sky, which Dena explained to me as the phenomenon of "sunrise."
It felt almost inhuman to shave at 6:00am. I didn't even do that when I was working full-time. But now I had this channel of energy and a surprising desire to be productive.
Cupcake was dancing around so I did some run-and-chase play with her up and down the stairs and all around the furniture.
Against all odds I left the condominium and went to the gym. It was infested with other people who had undoubtedly also been woken up by their cat. As I settled in to do some dumbbell lifts I made eye contact with the sweaty bulgy-biceped guy on the bench next to mine. "Cat, huh?" I smiled with a knowing nod. Too embarrassed of the truth, he pretended that I was crazy, shifting to a bench further away while chugging what looked to be a gallon of green sludge.
Soon I was on the way home, as the sun had yet to pop up from behind the buildings framing the road. I was aghast to see some roads blocked off by police and camouflaged persons and their construction cones, looking menacing as an incredibly long trail of athletically-clad prisoners jogged past them. A sign proclaimed that some charitable half-marathon was going on, and some lackeys went so far as to be dressed in "volunteer" shirts with smiles pasted on their faces and kegs of Gatorade at their side. But I was sure that this was nothing less than a 21st century death march; no free man would willingly run for 13 miles before Applebee's opens. But there was no time for tears, I was on a roll.
So here I sit, a sunny day emerging above me, well-exercised like my cat, blogging well under way... ready to... (yawn)... um... take a nap.
This morning I stirred to the usual scene of my cat mewing on my chest at 5:30am. But this time I actually found my eyes staying open.
I was confused by a strange red glow in the sky, which Dena explained to me as the phenomenon of "sunrise."
It felt almost inhuman to shave at 6:00am. I didn't even do that when I was working full-time. But now I had this channel of energy and a surprising desire to be productive.
Cupcake was dancing around so I did some run-and-chase play with her up and down the stairs and all around the furniture.
Against all odds I left the condominium and went to the gym. It was infested with other people who had undoubtedly also been woken up by their cat. As I settled in to do some dumbbell lifts I made eye contact with the sweaty bulgy-biceped guy on the bench next to mine. "Cat, huh?" I smiled with a knowing nod. Too embarrassed of the truth, he pretended that I was crazy, shifting to a bench further away while chugging what looked to be a gallon of green sludge.
Soon I was on the way home, as the sun had yet to pop up from behind the buildings framing the road. I was aghast to see some roads blocked off by police and camouflaged persons and their construction cones, looking menacing as an incredibly long trail of athletically-clad prisoners jogged past them. A sign proclaimed that some charitable half-marathon was going on, and some lackeys went so far as to be dressed in "volunteer" shirts with smiles pasted on their faces and kegs of Gatorade at their side. But I was sure that this was nothing less than a 21st century death march; no free man would willingly run for 13 miles before Applebee's opens. But there was no time for tears, I was on a roll.
So here I sit, a sunny day emerging above me, well-exercised like my cat, blogging well under way... ready to... (yawn)... um... take a nap.
Gilligan's Island Turns 50!
By Joal Ryan, Yahoo! TV:
Gilligan's Island is 50 years old. Its music is timeless.
"'Just sit right back, and you'll hear a tale...' The catchy theme from Gilligan’s Island is etched in the memories of generations of Americans, including mine!" Rick Bogard, music professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, said via email. "The familiar five-note intro is sure to send me to the television to watch another rerun of one of the favorite shows of my childhood."
Indeed, "The Ballad of Gilligan's Isle," written by sitcom creator and executive producer Sherwood Schwartz and George Wyle at the behest of network execs who worried audiences wouldn't understand how a shipmate (Bob Denver), a skipper (Alan Hale Jr.), a millionaire (Jim Backus) and the rest came to be stranded together on an uncharted island, is oft-cited as a TV favorite. (It was named the greatest theme song of all-time in our 2013 Yahoo TV reader poll.)
Over the course of three seasons and 98 episodes, plus a long-"lost" pilot, Gilligan's Island, which premiered Sept. 26, 1964, showed itself capable of being more than a one-hit wonder. (It even eventually inspired a musical.) Here's a look at five otherGilligan gems and curiosities:
1. The original theme song from the original pilot
It's calypso-y, and it's not as catchy as the theme song we came to know and get stuck in our heads, but it's not charmless, either. Its biggest asset is its backstory: The music was composed by the thirtysomething John Williams (Star Wars,Harry Potter, Jaws). The song, with lyrics by Schwartz, made itsbelated public debut in 1992 when TBS aired the previously unaired pilot. (Take note: In this version, the S.S. Minnow's sightseeing tour was supposed to last six, not three, hours.)
2. "Let Me Entertain You"
One of the big changes from the pilot to the show's launch was the ditching of the two female secretary characters (played by Kit Smythe and Nancy McCarthy) in favor of one movie actress (Ginger Grant, played by Tina Louise) and one fresh-faced farm innocent (Mary Ann Summers, played by Dawn Wells). The Ginger-Mary Ann dynamic launched a thousand debates, while Ginger singlehandedly gave the island pizazz — and an excuse to build a stage, host the occasional play or beauty pageant (as in Season 2's "Beauty Is as Beauty Does") and let Miss Grant do her best Marilyn Monroe, which was pretty good. Since Monroe never recorded "Let Me Entertain You," it's possible Ginger was actually doing her best Ann-Margret, who covered the tune from Gypsy in 1963.
3. "Don't Bug Me" and "He's a Loser"
The Archies didn't need guitar plugs, amps and mics, and neither did the Mosquitoes, the shipwrecked band from Season 2's "Don't Bug the Mosquitoes." If you're expecting realism from Gilligan's Island (or from the Archies, for that matter), then you've got the wrong show, if not the wrong primetime decade. Your enjoyment of these two enjoyable bubblegum pop pieces likewise will be enhanced if you ignore the blatant mockery of the Beatles and Beatlemania. Remember: It was 1965; blatant mockery was the only weapon the mainstream media had to (try to) stave off youth culture.
4. "You Need Us"
With all respect to the Mosquitoes, it's the Honeybees who steal the show in "Don't Bug the Mosquitoes" (which is the dramatic point, such as it was, of the episode). Louise, who recorded an album in the 1950s, It's Time for Tina, is in fine whispery voice. Wells sounds wonderful as well because, according to her, she's not singing. (We couldn't find an original, first-hand source to confirm one of the Internet's favorite bits of trivia: that "What the World Needs Now Is Love" singer Jackie DeShannon was Wells's vocal stand-in.) And then there's Natalie Schafer, as the moneyed Lovey Howell, who works it as few 65-year-olds have ever worked it on the pop stage.
5. "To Be or Not to Be"
"My introduction to both Hamlet and the opera Carmen was through a Gilligan's Island episode," author Karen Lynn Allen once wrote in a blog post that rings true for, well, anyone who was introduced to both William Shakespeare's Hamlet and the opera Carmen through Gilligan's Island. By the day's standards, Season 3's "The Producer" is nothing less than an extravaganza, featuring three songs, including Gilligan's soliloquy, and direction by the pioneering filmmaker Ida Lupino. The episode represents a high note for a series that liked to sing quite a bit.
Friday, September 26, 2014
Roadkill For One
I was driving down one of the side streets en route to the public library. What I like about side streets is that, in a town flooded with stop signs and stop lights, you can set the cruise control to 30mph and feel like you're gliding for a while.
You still have to pay attention, you know. This street in particular had some legendary potholes which, during the tricky times of winter that mask what's beneath, surely swallowed up a car or two. On a clear fall day like this I had no concern for car-sucking potholes, though.
Just the 2-day old roadkill. I say "roadkill" with a mix of dispassion and satisfaction, because my favorite type of rodent is one that's not moving, even the most cuddly kind like this ex-squirrel in front of me.
I was a little unprepared for the buzzard though.
Again I can say with overall serenity that I am thankful that this is the first buzzard I've ever seen. It suggests that, generally speaking, there is an insufficient long-dead-mammal supply to meet buzzard demand in this area. The majestic wingspan of the stoop-necked bird fit the cartoon caricature to a tee. However, I was a bit startled at the same time.
It flew away as I approached, which is understandable given the predatory appearance of a silver Honda Civic.
I can either chalk this up as a remarkable once-in-a-lifetime moment for me, or as a seriously flawed experiment by the town sanitation department to save on their truck budget.
You still have to pay attention, you know. This street in particular had some legendary potholes which, during the tricky times of winter that mask what's beneath, surely swallowed up a car or two. On a clear fall day like this I had no concern for car-sucking potholes, though.
Just the 2-day old roadkill. I say "roadkill" with a mix of dispassion and satisfaction, because my favorite type of rodent is one that's not moving, even the most cuddly kind like this ex-squirrel in front of me.
I was a little unprepared for the buzzard though.
Again I can say with overall serenity that I am thankful that this is the first buzzard I've ever seen. It suggests that, generally speaking, there is an insufficient long-dead-mammal supply to meet buzzard demand in this area. The majestic wingspan of the stoop-necked bird fit the cartoon caricature to a tee. However, I was a bit startled at the same time.
It flew away as I approached, which is understandable given the predatory appearance of a silver Honda Civic.
I can either chalk this up as a remarkable once-in-a-lifetime moment for me, or as a seriously flawed experiment by the town sanitation department to save on their truck budget.
10 Astounding Derek Jeter Numbers
In just a few days, his wheel will stop spinning. His No. 2 will vanish into Monument Park. And the incredible numbers on Derek Jeter's stat sheet will freeze in time. Forever.
So what are the entries on his encyclopedia page that ought to pole-vault off the page at you? Here are 10 Jeter numbers I particularly love:
2,743What’s that number? It’s the number of regular-season games Jeter has played in his career, every one of them for the New York Yankees. And how cool is that? The next-most games, by a man who played only for the Yankees, is 2,401, by Mickey Mantle. But even more cool is this: Jeter is one of just eight players in history who played that many games, all for one team. The others: Carl Yastrzemski (3,308 for the Red Sox), Stan Musial (3,026 for the Cardinals), Cal Ripken Jr. (3,001 for the Orioles), Brooks Robinson (2,896 for the Orioles), Robin Yount (2,856 for the Brewers), Craig Biggio (2,850 for the Astros) and Al Kaline (2,834 for the Tigers). Awesome group.
3,461This, of course, is Derek Jeter’s hit total. And holy, schmoly, that’s a lot of hits. Heck, it’s more than Hank Greenberg and Shoeless Joe Jacksoncombined (3,400). And only five men in the history of baseball had more hits than Derek Jeter. See if they sound familiar: Pete Rose, Ty Cobb, Hank Aaron, Stan Musial and Tris Speaker. Wow.
2,673Here’s another super-cool number. It’s the number of games Jeter has played at shortstop. And it's not only more games than Ernie Banks and Robin Yount played at short put together, but also the most games by any man in history who played one defensive position and never played anywhere else -- not even in the 19th inning, for one batter. Pete Rose played six positions. Ty Cobb played seven. Stan Musial played five (including pitcher). And Derek Jeter played one position. And only one. Now that’s how it ought to be done.
1,013Can’t figure out why I love this so much, but whatever. Derek Jeter will finish his career with more than 1,000 multihit games. More than Tony Gwynn or Wade Boggs. More than Willie Mays or Rogers Hornsby. In fact, just three other hitters in the entire live ball era finished their careers in the 1,000 Multihit Game Club: Pete Rose (1,225), Stan Musial (1,059) and Hank Aaron (1,046). Pretty fair top of the order.
200One of the most special Jeter numbers of them all. Why? Because he’s the only man in history who ever got 200 hits in the postseason alone. Now obviously, he got several more opportunities to get those hits than, say, Ernie Banks. But let’s put this in better perspective. In 158 postseason games, roughly the equivalent of a full season, Jeter wound up with 200 hits, 20 homers, 18 steals, a .308 batting average, a .374 on-base percentage and an .838 OPS. So how many active players have ever had a regular season like that? Exactly five. And one of them is (guess who?) Derek Jeter. Who of course also had a "season" like that in October. Against the best teams and the best pitchers, in the most pressurized games of his life. Don't tell me that's overrated.
11Perhaps you think it’s no big deal that Derek Jeter had 11 seasons in his career in which he batted over .300 and finished with both double-digit homers and steals. But you want to guess how many other players in history have had 11 seasons like that? The correct answer, according to Lee Sinins' Complete Baseball Encyclopedia: zero. Willie Mays had seven. Hank Aaron had six. Barry Bonds had eight. Name whatever high-average, power-speed guy you’d like. Ken Griffey Jr.? Seven. Alex Rodriguez? Eight. Frank Robinson? Five. It’s a reminder that Jeter could beat you in multiple ways. And did.
.377Oh, all right, all right, I know that batting average isn't one of those stats that impresses the cool kids anymore. So how about this one? It’s Derek Jeter's career on-base percentage. And if you're not sure what to make of it, I can help. Since World War II, three dozen men have played at least 1,500 games at shortstop. You know how many of them had a higher career OBP than Jeter? Not one. Cal Ripken Jr. finished with a .340 OBP. Ozzie Smith wound up at .337. Alan Trammell had a .352 OBP. Among the shortstops of Jeter's lifetime, only Barry Larkin was even close, at .371.
92From July 21, 2006 to May 16, 2007, Derek Jeter played in 100 games. He got a hit in 92 of them. Now once upon a time, in the 19th century, Wee Willie Keeler hit 'em where they weren’t in 93 out of 100 games. But since 1900, according to streak historian Trent McCotter, you’ll find only one other player who got a hit in 92 of 100. That wasIchiro Suzuki, in 2008 and '09. But it’s mind-warping to look at the list of guys who never did it. Ty Cobb. Rogers Hornsby. Honus Wagner. Tony Gwynn. Pete Rose. George Brett. But the shortstop for the New York Yankees, who never won a batting title or hit in more than 25 games in a row? He did. We mention it only because consistency was Jeter’s most important product.
6Derek Jeter played for the Yankees when he was 20 years old. Derek Jeter also played for the Yankees when he was 40 years old. And he played for them at all the ages in between. Thanks to the Elias Sports Bureau, we know that doesn't happen much. He’s one of only six players who played for the same team at age 20 and after turning 40. The others: Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Brooks Robinson, George Brett, Cal Ripken Jr. There’s a word for that list: iconic.
1Finally, there’s this astounding number. According to Elias, it’s the number of games Jeter has played, in his entire career, in which his team, the mighty Yankees, was mathematically eliminated from some sort of race for some sort of trip to the postseason. One meaningless game in 20 seasons? Whoa. On one hand, it would be nuts to argue that was all Derek Jeter’s doing. On the other hand, what defines his career better than that? A man who lived for the big game -- and played nothing but big games. For 20 years. What better way to put a frame around the career of one of the greatest shortstops who ever turned a 4-6-3?
So what are the entries on his encyclopedia page that ought to pole-vault off the page at you? Here are 10 Jeter numbers I particularly love:
2,743What’s that number? It’s the number of regular-season games Jeter has played in his career, every one of them for the New York Yankees. And how cool is that? The next-most games, by a man who played only for the Yankees, is 2,401, by Mickey Mantle. But even more cool is this: Jeter is one of just eight players in history who played that many games, all for one team. The others: Carl Yastrzemski (3,308 for the Red Sox), Stan Musial (3,026 for the Cardinals), Cal Ripken Jr. (3,001 for the Orioles), Brooks Robinson (2,896 for the Orioles), Robin Yount (2,856 for the Brewers), Craig Biggio (2,850 for the Astros) and Al Kaline (2,834 for the Tigers). Awesome group.
3,461This, of course, is Derek Jeter’s hit total. And holy, schmoly, that’s a lot of hits. Heck, it’s more than Hank Greenberg and Shoeless Joe Jacksoncombined (3,400). And only five men in the history of baseball had more hits than Derek Jeter. See if they sound familiar: Pete Rose, Ty Cobb, Hank Aaron, Stan Musial and Tris Speaker. Wow.
The iconic Yankees' shortstop is wrapping up a 20-year career that includes five World Series championship rings.1,013Can’t figure out why I love this so much, but whatever. Derek Jeter will finish his career with more than 1,000 multihit games. More than Tony Gwynn or Wade Boggs. More than Willie Mays or Rogers Hornsby. In fact, just three other hitters in the entire live ball era finished their careers in the 1,000 Multihit Game Club: Pete Rose (1,225), Stan Musial (1,059) and Hank Aaron (1,046). Pretty fair top of the order.
200One of the most special Jeter numbers of them all. Why? Because he’s the only man in history who ever got 200 hits in the postseason alone. Now obviously, he got several more opportunities to get those hits than, say, Ernie Banks. But let’s put this in better perspective. In 158 postseason games, roughly the equivalent of a full season, Jeter wound up with 200 hits, 20 homers, 18 steals, a .308 batting average, a .374 on-base percentage and an .838 OPS. So how many active players have ever had a regular season like that? Exactly five. And one of them is (guess who?) Derek Jeter. Who of course also had a "season" like that in October. Against the best teams and the best pitchers, in the most pressurized games of his life. Don't tell me that's overrated.
11Perhaps you think it’s no big deal that Derek Jeter had 11 seasons in his career in which he batted over .300 and finished with both double-digit homers and steals. But you want to guess how many other players in history have had 11 seasons like that? The correct answer, according to Lee Sinins' Complete Baseball Encyclopedia: zero. Willie Mays had seven. Hank Aaron had six. Barry Bonds had eight. Name whatever high-average, power-speed guy you’d like. Ken Griffey Jr.? Seven. Alex Rodriguez? Eight. Frank Robinson? Five. It’s a reminder that Jeter could beat you in multiple ways. And did.
[+] Enlarge
Jim McIsaac/Getty Images5 -- Number of World Series titles for No. 2, Derek Jeter.
92From July 21, 2006 to May 16, 2007, Derek Jeter played in 100 games. He got a hit in 92 of them. Now once upon a time, in the 19th century, Wee Willie Keeler hit 'em where they weren’t in 93 out of 100 games. But since 1900, according to streak historian Trent McCotter, you’ll find only one other player who got a hit in 92 of 100. That wasIchiro Suzuki, in 2008 and '09. But it’s mind-warping to look at the list of guys who never did it. Ty Cobb. Rogers Hornsby. Honus Wagner. Tony Gwynn. Pete Rose. George Brett. But the shortstop for the New York Yankees, who never won a batting title or hit in more than 25 games in a row? He did. We mention it only because consistency was Jeter’s most important product.
6Derek Jeter played for the Yankees when he was 20 years old. Derek Jeter also played for the Yankees when he was 40 years old. And he played for them at all the ages in between. Thanks to the Elias Sports Bureau, we know that doesn't happen much. He’s one of only six players who played for the same team at age 20 and after turning 40. The others: Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Brooks Robinson, George Brett, Cal Ripken Jr. There’s a word for that list: iconic.
1Finally, there’s this astounding number. According to Elias, it’s the number of games Jeter has played, in his entire career, in which his team, the mighty Yankees, was mathematically eliminated from some sort of race for some sort of trip to the postseason. One meaningless game in 20 seasons? Whoa. On one hand, it would be nuts to argue that was all Derek Jeter’s doing. On the other hand, what defines his career better than that? A man who lived for the big game -- and played nothing but big games. For 20 years. What better way to put a frame around the career of one of the greatest shortstops who ever turned a 4-6-3?
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Derek Jeter Walk-Off Hit In His Final Home Game
NEW YORK (AP) -- The perfect script.
Serenaded with adoring chants that echoed through the Bronx night, Jeter tipped his cap several times and drove in three runs. He launched an early RBI double off the left-center wall and saved the best for last, a sharp, opposite-field single to right that knocked in the winner.Derek Jeter capped his Yankee Stadium farewell with a game-winning single in the bottom of the ninth inning, the latest - and perhaps last - storybook moment of his charmed and illustrious career, to give New York a 6-5 victory Thursday night over the Baltimore Orioles.
''It was above and beyond anything that I've ever dreamt of,'' Jeter said. ''This was a lot of fun.''
During the raucous celebration that followed, Jeter said he's made his final appearance at shortstop, but he'll likely play in some capacity this weekend at Boston.
It appeared his tiebreaking grounder in the seventh would be the swing that sent the Yankees to a win when they built a 5-2 cushion against the AL East champions.
Nope, he's always had a flair for the most electrifying kind of drama, and this night was destined to be no different.Not bad - but not Jeter.
As if it was planned all along, closer David Robertson (4-5) gave up a two-run homer in the top of the ninth to Adam Jones and a tying shot to Steve Pearce with two outs.
That only set the stage for Jeter one more time.
''It's like a movie,'' teammate Chase Headley said. ''You look up there and you see who's hitting third and you're like, really? This can't happen, can it? You're surprised but you're not surprised.''
Jose Pirela hit a leadoff single against Evan Meek (0-4) in the bottom of the ninth before Brett Gardner sacrificed. Jeter lined the next pitch through a huge hole on the right side, and pinch-runner Antoan Richardson slid home ahead of Nick Markakis' throw.
An elated Jeter jumped and raised both arms between first and second. Yankees players rushed out to engulf him as former teammates such as Jorge Posada, Mariano Rivera, Bernie Williams, Andy Pettitte, Tino Martinez and Hall of Fame manager Joe Torre lined up near the New York dugout waiting to greet the retiring captain.
''Sort of an out-of-body experience,'' Jeter said.
He went back out to shortstop, crouched down at the edge of the outfield grass and bounced on his toes a couple of times before rejoining the group.
Jeter tipped his cap again and was doused over the head with a sports drink by Gardner and CC Sabathia.
''To be honest with you, I don't know how I played this game,'' said Jeter, who acknowledged getting choked up several times throughout the day - usually somewhere he could be alone. ''I went up my first at-bat, I forgot my elbow guard. I was throwing balls away. I was giving signs to (Stephen) Drew at second base and there's no one on base, so I was all messed up.''
The 40-year-old Jeter made a throwing error in the second, then started a difficult double play an inning later. At one point on the basepaths, he appeared to lose track of how many outs there were.
But all that became merely a footnote when Jeter produced another indelible moment to go with his famous dive into the stands and his backhand flip to the plate and his home run for hit No. 3,000.
Mr. November. Subway Series MVP. Jeffrey Maier. The list goes on and on.
''I don't think there's a more fitting way to end,'' Yankees manager Joe Girardi said.
In one twist that hardly fit, however, Jeter's home finale was the only game he ever played at Yankee Stadium with his team already knocked out of the playoff race.
Jeter ended last season on the disabled list, so the only other time in his 20-year career (2,745 regular-season games) that he appeared in a game with New York already out of postseason contention was in Boston on Sept. 26, 2008.
''His signature is winning. What other accolade can you pick?'' said Orioles skipper Buck Showalter, who was Jeter's first manager when the youngster broke into the big leagues in May 1995. ''Take a good look, because there are not going to be many like this come your way again.''
Heavy rain soaked the city all afternoon, but the sky cleared in the evening and the tarp was removed from the infield an hour before the first pitch. A rainbow, in fact, appeared over the stadium.
The game began right on time, but it didn't start well for the Yankees.
Roll call by the Bleacher Creatures was interrupted just as they got to a roaring chant of ''De-rek Je-ter!'' Markakis hit a leadoff homer, awkwardly silencing a sellout crowd of 48,613 that included rap star Jay-Z and other famous faces.
Alejandro De Aza followed with another long ball to right, the first time Baltimore had started a game with consecutive homers since hitting three in a row against Texas on May 10, 2012.
Jeter, however, hit an RBI double in the first against rookie Kevin Gausman, who was 4 years old when Jeter made his major league debut. The ball banged off the left-center wall - just missing a home run by a couple of feet.
''I went behind home plate to cover and I swear I felt the entire place shaking,'' Gausman said.
Jeter scored on a grounder, and the fans were back into it.
Hours later, he was asked to reflect on his entire career in pinstripes.
''I can honestly say I don't think anyone played harder,'' he said. ''I don't.''
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
A Day In The Life Of A Faithful Tutor
As the week began I looked ahead to today (Wednesday) knowing it would truly be the hump-day. Tutoring appointments scheduled from 8:30am to 9:00pm with a few breaks here and there. That last appointment was a debatable one for me, since it would be the fifth hour of tutoring in a row, which I've learned is about when my mind starts fuzzying up. But in the words of a wise man, God doesn't give us more than we can handle. So I took a leap of faith and accepted it.
Adding to the challenge, my back started locking up on Sunday night.
Then this happened:
- On Monday night, my 8:30am Wednesday appointment asked if we could move earlier, to Tuesday. I gladly agreed, night person that I am, since it meant my Wednesday would now begin at 11:00am.
- On Tuesday, a student asked if I could meet with him Wednesday night. The earliest I could do is 9pm, my sixth hour in a row. I hate to deny students a chance, but there was no way I was touching that scenario.
- Wednesday morning my back was still achy. Should I lay down and rest it until my 11:00 first appointment? I also hate skipping workout days, so I accepted it as another life challenge and did a 3-mile run. After popping an aspirin of course. I actually think it helped jump start my body and ease the pain. Then I got home, showered and spent some couch time recovering.
- When I got home from my run, there was a message that my 4pm appointment was sick from school so would be canceling. Now my evening would only be a 4-hour stretch. This was a break for the guy I'd had to deny previously, so I texted him and added a 9pm appointment. Continuing to boldly embrace the challenge of the 5-hour shift.
- My 11:00am through 2:00pm shift at Heartland was not too busy, so I was able to continue to rest my back. I even got a chance to follow up on two potential new college students.
- I laid down for a couple hours once I got home, taking advantage of the 4pm cancellation. Meanwhile, my 5pm also called to cancel his appointment.
- While lying by the pool, I received yet another new student request from a concerned parent.
- My 6pm appointment went smoothly.
- My 7pm appointment forgot to tell me that his family had received a foreign exchange student so he had to cancel for the night.
This gave me a chance to sit here at the library's computer and blog about a day in the life of a tutor. Indeed my faith was rewarded, God did not give me more than I could handle. Assuming that my last two students show up, I will have ended up with only six hours of tutoring instead of nine. That meant three extra hours to rest my back, plus the quiet day at HCC. And I gained three leads on new students.
The craziness of working with young adults reminds me why my calling is tutorhood rather than fatherhood, since I can thrive within it in small doses. Today was also affirmation that rising to a challenge breeds a warmth of satisfaction that comes with perfect effort. And, perhaps most importantly, that I am in sync with God's creation, using the right talents for the right need.
Adding to the challenge, my back started locking up on Sunday night.
Then this happened:
- On Monday night, my 8:30am Wednesday appointment asked if we could move earlier, to Tuesday. I gladly agreed, night person that I am, since it meant my Wednesday would now begin at 11:00am.
- On Tuesday, a student asked if I could meet with him Wednesday night. The earliest I could do is 9pm, my sixth hour in a row. I hate to deny students a chance, but there was no way I was touching that scenario.
- Wednesday morning my back was still achy. Should I lay down and rest it until my 11:00 first appointment? I also hate skipping workout days, so I accepted it as another life challenge and did a 3-mile run. After popping an aspirin of course. I actually think it helped jump start my body and ease the pain. Then I got home, showered and spent some couch time recovering.
- When I got home from my run, there was a message that my 4pm appointment was sick from school so would be canceling. Now my evening would only be a 4-hour stretch. This was a break for the guy I'd had to deny previously, so I texted him and added a 9pm appointment. Continuing to boldly embrace the challenge of the 5-hour shift.
- My 11:00am through 2:00pm shift at Heartland was not too busy, so I was able to continue to rest my back. I even got a chance to follow up on two potential new college students.
- I laid down for a couple hours once I got home, taking advantage of the 4pm cancellation. Meanwhile, my 5pm also called to cancel his appointment.
- While lying by the pool, I received yet another new student request from a concerned parent.
- My 6pm appointment went smoothly.
- My 7pm appointment forgot to tell me that his family had received a foreign exchange student so he had to cancel for the night.
This gave me a chance to sit here at the library's computer and blog about a day in the life of a tutor. Indeed my faith was rewarded, God did not give me more than I could handle. Assuming that my last two students show up, I will have ended up with only six hours of tutoring instead of nine. That meant three extra hours to rest my back, plus the quiet day at HCC. And I gained three leads on new students.
The craziness of working with young adults reminds me why my calling is tutorhood rather than fatherhood, since I can thrive within it in small doses. Today was also affirmation that rising to a challenge breeds a warmth of satisfaction that comes with perfect effort. And, perhaps most importantly, that I am in sync with God's creation, using the right talents for the right need.
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
A Recipe For Peace
During Cupcake's nocturnal cravings for going outside for walks - which are no stranger to long periods of sitting in place pawing at something invisible on the ground - I've come to appreciate the underrated experience of simply gazing upward.
Stars look like pin pricks across the velvety black swath of space visible to my naked eye. Each of those stars is vastly more powerful than me, could crisp me in an instant with their heat. Some of them (most of them?) are larger than Earth.
The Earth's just a pebble, a dirty one less brilliant than any of the stars that make up the beach of the Milky Way, which itself is just one picnic area amidst the infinity of the universe. And how many universes are there?
How long has creation existed? Our eighty or so years register less visibly than the tiniest dot in the sky, faster than a blink of an eye in the lifespan of everything.
I am blessed, but small.
My problems are not problems.
All I have to do is look up, deep into the patient, endless sea of sparkling ripples above, to remember. And to take comfort in my place in these heavens.
7 Kittens In A Photo Shoot
It's a close call as to what makes me happier about this... the video itself, or the fact that I'm married to someone who sends me these!
Monday, September 22, 2014
Sunday, September 21, 2014
Carnegie: Never Say "You're Wrong"
I made it a rule, to forbear all direct contradiction to the sentiment of others, and all positive assertion of my own, I even forbade myself the use of every word or expression in the language that imported a fix’d opinion, such as ‘certainly,’ ‘undoubtedly,’ etc., and I adopted, instead of them, ‘I conceive,’ ‘I apprehend, ‘ or ‘I imagine’ a thing to be so or so, or ‘it so appears to me at present. » said Benjamin Franklin
« If you can be sure of being right only 55 percent of the time, you can go down to Wall Street and make a million dollars a day. If you can’t be sure of being right even 55 percent of the time, why should you tell other people they are wrong? « By Dale Carnegie
Retreat-In-A-Bottle
Today another three-day Catholic retreat completed. The Mass I attended was joined by forty adult men spanning the decades. They were joyful, back-slapping, even singing - the type of demeanor men typically exhibit only while under the influence of anesthesia. I've been there myself. You walk in as strangers and come out as pals, at least until real life slowly ebbs (but not erases) those bonds.
What is it about these retreats that lifts men to a higher plane of satisfaction, however temporarily? Three days seldom changes the entire course of a life, but if it could be bottled, what ingredients would be stored?
Perhaps it's the sleep? Often there are no electronic devices along to occupy one's thoughts near bedtime. Activities may last until bedtime, but the stillness of being alone with your thoughts in bed can be a healthy meditation and sedative.
Freedom from social inhibition plays a part. The absence of status creates a culture of equal brotherhood. The anonymity of being mostly strangers, and the guidance of the retreat leaders, enables a culture of unfiltered exchange of faith, struggles, handshakes and hugs that simply aren't as likely when walking around in America with a masculine reputation to build.
It might be the separation from responsibility? Work and family responsibilities are gone. For many it may have been the first time since college or earlier that a person was truly single, engrossed in only his state of mind and the path toward happiness.
For me there was a lot to be said for perspective. I'll remember the 80 year old farmer who said that career "just didn't matter." He's right. Career for many is a means to an end. The more of us it consumes, the shorter of a life we have left. In many things, big stuff is not that big.
The retreat floats on optimism. With the right thoughts and actions, you can succeed. The presence of God ensures that you cannot truly fail. Whatever your past, your future explodes with possibility.
In all, I suppose it's the emptying of the mind from heavy thoughts, and the filling of that space with messages of peace, that remind us what life can be if we are surrounded by the right people.
What is it about these retreats that lifts men to a higher plane of satisfaction, however temporarily? Three days seldom changes the entire course of a life, but if it could be bottled, what ingredients would be stored?
Perhaps it's the sleep? Often there are no electronic devices along to occupy one's thoughts near bedtime. Activities may last until bedtime, but the stillness of being alone with your thoughts in bed can be a healthy meditation and sedative.
Freedom from social inhibition plays a part. The absence of status creates a culture of equal brotherhood. The anonymity of being mostly strangers, and the guidance of the retreat leaders, enables a culture of unfiltered exchange of faith, struggles, handshakes and hugs that simply aren't as likely when walking around in America with a masculine reputation to build.
It might be the separation from responsibility? Work and family responsibilities are gone. For many it may have been the first time since college or earlier that a person was truly single, engrossed in only his state of mind and the path toward happiness.
For me there was a lot to be said for perspective. I'll remember the 80 year old farmer who said that career "just didn't matter." He's right. Career for many is a means to an end. The more of us it consumes, the shorter of a life we have left. In many things, big stuff is not that big.
The retreat floats on optimism. With the right thoughts and actions, you can succeed. The presence of God ensures that you cannot truly fail. Whatever your past, your future explodes with possibility.
In all, I suppose it's the emptying of the mind from heavy thoughts, and the filling of that space with messages of peace, that remind us what life can be if we are surrounded by the right people.
So Un-Gnat-ural
If there was ever a low-value life form, what could better represent it than a gnat?
They hatch in tall grass under the muggiest of conditions. They live a few weeks, at most. What do they do with their time on Earth? Swarm toward lightly colored clothing and skin, on animals literally 100,000 times their size. They inflict a bite sharp enough to annoy, really just a pinch. They lack the vision to see the death blow coming, ending them in a microscopic smear.
What is the purpose of a gnat's life? They probably lack the capacity to contemplate it, but if they had it, it might explain their kamikaze assaults on humanity.
How much better are we than gnats? In most of our most pitiful moments, we have so much that can be achieved. We have a future beyond the end of the month. We have abilities beyond mere irritation. We can leave a legacy beyond a bite mark that lasts a week.
Exceed the gnat. What will we do today?
They hatch in tall grass under the muggiest of conditions. They live a few weeks, at most. What do they do with their time on Earth? Swarm toward lightly colored clothing and skin, on animals literally 100,000 times their size. They inflict a bite sharp enough to annoy, really just a pinch. They lack the vision to see the death blow coming, ending them in a microscopic smear.
What is the purpose of a gnat's life? They probably lack the capacity to contemplate it, but if they had it, it might explain their kamikaze assaults on humanity.
How much better are we than gnats? In most of our most pitiful moments, we have so much that can be achieved. We have a future beyond the end of the month. We have abilities beyond mere irritation. We can leave a legacy beyond a bite mark that lasts a week.
Exceed the gnat. What will we do today?
Summer Spells And Absent Smells: The Week In Thanks
I learned today that bandmate's new puppy Teddy, who weighs about one pound, was clinging to life due to what appears to be hypoglycemia. She and her parents are watching over him every hour. The fact that, upon diagnosis, it was not a certainly-fatal liver condition is reason enough for praise. But it also puts into perspective how blessed Dena and I have been with Cupcake's health, and as she nears her first birthday, her continued maturity with all its cuteness.
Our music set at Mass felt better than it has in a few weeks. The songs were some of our more harmonious ones, which helped. I was again struck by how large the congregation seemed to be. The presence of a men's retreat boosted attendance too. But for some reason my voice was livelier than it's been recently. Not that I put any more effort into it, it simply felt looser. I approach the microphone as a chance to lift the spirits of hundreds by magnifying the gifts I've been given, and channeling the intense feeling of joy that is the good fortune in my life.
I've been back in the gym working out with weights for a few weeks now. I was measured and brief in my early ventures, but by now am feeling strong enough to push myself without enduring major punishment the following morning. The body's ability to adapt never fails to amaze.
There's always a story of turmoil somewhere. Lately it's been the almost unspeakable atrocities leveled by the extremists under the ISIS label. Elsewhere, Scotland considers independence from its neighbors. Domestic abuse stories rage on in the papers. Meanwhile, life in this town and my home is safe and robustly healthy.
I got a chance to listen to the cast of Rent sing for the first time via video clip. It's a warm feeling to see so many talented, good-hearted people producing art in one place. The experience of being in a CPT cast is as good as any religious retreat I've been on. I'm looking forward to Dirty Rotten Scoundrels this winter.
I've been reading a book about Chris Von der Ahe, owner of the St. Louis baseball team in 1883. At that time, less than two decades after the Civil War, the game of professional baseball was nearly dead. The hard-driving efforts of Von der Ahe and several others rekindled the sport into the machine that it is today. And as I battle valiantly for first place in fantasy baseball, I couldn't be more grateful then I am right now for what he did.
Since I was old enough to make a disgusted face, I've been picky about the things I put in my mouth. Those reluctant tastes have made me blander than some, but also distant from anything resembling obesity, smoking, drugs or drunkenness.
I've claimed Avanti's as my restaurant of choice since I first walked in its doors nearly 25 years ago. Then recently Dena made it known to me in an offhanded way during a conversation that the restaurant's atmosphere disagrees with her nose. This is partly why our marriage is so great: She does all she can to support my loves, and I am glad to adapt for her comfort. That's why we've been dining more at LaGondola the last two weeks!
The late summer sun has finally coaxed me outside to catch some rays this past week. I haven't had quite the passion to read outdoors as in previous years, but I'm glad that the urge struck when there was still enough time to feast on blue-skied generosity.
Did you see that Bears win last week? So unexpected after falling behind 17-0 on the road. Listening to Chicago sports radio was nirvana for a couple days, there. Enjoy it while it lasts!
It was a phenomenal week as far as condominium board business. A long-delinquent unit finally paid off a $6,000 debt. A settlement check arrived from State Farm for $7,000. A potential $21,000 surprise expense on the carports was dodged. An estimate on security lighting came in thousands of dollars under budget.
Finally pleased to report that Skunk-Smell-Gate is over. For now. No suspicious smells have invaded our nostrils from the attic. Still, we may have Critter Control take a peek. For now, it's an aromatic celebration every morning.
Our music set at Mass felt better than it has in a few weeks. The songs were some of our more harmonious ones, which helped. I was again struck by how large the congregation seemed to be. The presence of a men's retreat boosted attendance too. But for some reason my voice was livelier than it's been recently. Not that I put any more effort into it, it simply felt looser. I approach the microphone as a chance to lift the spirits of hundreds by magnifying the gifts I've been given, and channeling the intense feeling of joy that is the good fortune in my life.
I've been back in the gym working out with weights for a few weeks now. I was measured and brief in my early ventures, but by now am feeling strong enough to push myself without enduring major punishment the following morning. The body's ability to adapt never fails to amaze.
There's always a story of turmoil somewhere. Lately it's been the almost unspeakable atrocities leveled by the extremists under the ISIS label. Elsewhere, Scotland considers independence from its neighbors. Domestic abuse stories rage on in the papers. Meanwhile, life in this town and my home is safe and robustly healthy.
I got a chance to listen to the cast of Rent sing for the first time via video clip. It's a warm feeling to see so many talented, good-hearted people producing art in one place. The experience of being in a CPT cast is as good as any religious retreat I've been on. I'm looking forward to Dirty Rotten Scoundrels this winter.
I've been reading a book about Chris Von der Ahe, owner of the St. Louis baseball team in 1883. At that time, less than two decades after the Civil War, the game of professional baseball was nearly dead. The hard-driving efforts of Von der Ahe and several others rekindled the sport into the machine that it is today. And as I battle valiantly for first place in fantasy baseball, I couldn't be more grateful then I am right now for what he did.
Since I was old enough to make a disgusted face, I've been picky about the things I put in my mouth. Those reluctant tastes have made me blander than some, but also distant from anything resembling obesity, smoking, drugs or drunkenness.
I've claimed Avanti's as my restaurant of choice since I first walked in its doors nearly 25 years ago. Then recently Dena made it known to me in an offhanded way during a conversation that the restaurant's atmosphere disagrees with her nose. This is partly why our marriage is so great: She does all she can to support my loves, and I am glad to adapt for her comfort. That's why we've been dining more at LaGondola the last two weeks!
The late summer sun has finally coaxed me outside to catch some rays this past week. I haven't had quite the passion to read outdoors as in previous years, but I'm glad that the urge struck when there was still enough time to feast on blue-skied generosity.
Did you see that Bears win last week? So unexpected after falling behind 17-0 on the road. Listening to Chicago sports radio was nirvana for a couple days, there. Enjoy it while it lasts!
It was a phenomenal week as far as condominium board business. A long-delinquent unit finally paid off a $6,000 debt. A settlement check arrived from State Farm for $7,000. A potential $21,000 surprise expense on the carports was dodged. An estimate on security lighting came in thousands of dollars under budget.
Finally pleased to report that Skunk-Smell-Gate is over. For now. No suspicious smells have invaded our nostrils from the attic. Still, we may have Critter Control take a peek. For now, it's an aromatic celebration every morning.
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Carnegie: Talk In Terms Of The Other Person's Interests
Let the other person do most of the talking by asking questions and them listening to them actively and connecting with them at the level of what they value. You should have a genuine interest in the other person. Then, and only then, can you sincerely talk in terms of the other person’s interest.
Similarly, this piece of advice even holds true when giving a speech: The speech isn’t about you. It isn’t even about your expertise. It’s about your audience and how they can benefit from what you say.
According to Howard Z. Herzig, a leader in the field of employee communications, talking in terms of the other person's interests pays off for both parties. When you take the time and effort to find out what interests the person you are speaking to, the reward will be an enlargement of your life each time you speak to someone.
You've probably heard of the Golden Rule, which is "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Why not apply this rule to the area of interpersonal communication? Author Tony Allesandra has come up with the Platinum Rule, which is "Treat others the way they want to be treated." This is an important rule that can help guide the way in which you treat others.
Similarly, this piece of advice even holds true when giving a speech: The speech isn’t about you. It isn’t even about your expertise. It’s about your audience and how they can benefit from what you say.
According to Howard Z. Herzig, a leader in the field of employee communications, talking in terms of the other person's interests pays off for both parties. When you take the time and effort to find out what interests the person you are speaking to, the reward will be an enlargement of your life each time you speak to someone.
You've probably heard of the Golden Rule, which is "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Why not apply this rule to the area of interpersonal communication? Author Tony Allesandra has come up with the Platinum Rule, which is "Treat others the way they want to be treated." This is an important rule that can help guide the way in which you treat others.
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