tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12112377686994343382024-03-05T09:21:09.863-08:00WadeCCortezRandom Thoughts from a Simple MindWade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.comBlogger178125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-82924295640900902852014-06-08T06:32:00.001-07:002014-06-08T06:32:25.319-07:00TestTestWade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-48276728712661361262013-09-04T16:29:00.001-07:002013-09-05T05:10:45.261-07:00NFL picks......or Wade's Best Guess...is it the Year of the Tiger?In the recent issue of ESPN the Magazine, they printed their NFL predictions for this year. Actually not sure if I should say it is their picks, because they based their predictions on STATS. THEY went with analytics. They turned to some of NFL's smartest stat heads. <div>At first I thought their Stat heads were way off base. They actually picked the Dolphins to win the AFC East..... What? </div><div>They picked the Saints to finish last in the NFC south.....</div><div>They picked Denver and Seattle to go to the Super Bowl with the Broncos taking home the prize.</div><div>Like I said, at first I thought some of their picks were cracked.</div><div>Then it came time for me to put in my 1.5 cents.</div><div>This year I did not look at each game, so therefore, I did not pick a winner of each game.</div><div>What I did do, was look at each division. I thought about (based on division, schedule, current states of teams, etc) who would win the division, who would come in second, etc, then from that I picked the wild cards and so on.........</div><div>So not to bore you any longer (if you are still reading) ...</div><div>Here are my picks for this year's NFL season....</div><div><br></div><div>BUT before I get to them, this will be one of the closest NFL seasons ever. In many of the divisions, it can easily go differently. </div><div><br></div><div>AFC EAST</div><div>1-New England </div><div>2-Miami</div><div>3-Buffalo</div><div>4-New York </div><div><br></div><div>AFC NORTH</div><div>1-Cincinnati</div><div>2-Baltimore</div><div>3-Pittsburgh</div><div>4-Cleveland</div><div><br></div><div>AFC SOUTH</div><div>1-Indianapolis </div><div>2-Houston</div><div>3-Jacksonville </div><div>4-Tennessee </div><div><br></div><div>AFC WEST</div><div>1-Denver</div><div>2-Kansas City</div><div>3-Oakland </div><div>4-San Diego</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>NFC EAST</div><div>1-Dallas </div><div>2- Washington </div><div>3-New York</div><div>4-Philadelphia </div><div><br></div><div>NFC NORTH</div><div>1-Green Bay</div><div>2-Chicago</div><div>3-Minnesota </div><div>4-Detroit </div><div><br></div><div>NFC SOUTH</div><div>1-Atlanta</div><div>2-New Orleans </div><div>3-Carolina</div><div>4-Tampa Bay</div><div><br></div><div>NFC WEST</div><div>1-Seattle</div><div>2-San Francisco</div><div>3-Arizona </div><div>4-St. Louis</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>BUT, I wouldn't be surprised if .....</div><div>Arizona wins the NFC west.....</div><div>Any team wins the NFC south.....</div><div>Chicago jumps Green Bay....</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>So here we go...</div><div><br></div><div>AFC PLAYOFF TEAMS</div><div>New England</div><div>Cincinnati </div><div>Denver</div><div>Indianapolis </div><div>Baltimore - Wild Card</div><div>Miami - Wild Card</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>NFC PLAYOFF TEAMS</div><div>Atlanta</div><div>Seattle</div><div>Green Bay</div><div>Dallas </div><div>New Orleans - Wild Card</div><div>San Francisco - Wild Card</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>It gets harder from here......any team in the WADE playoffs can go to the Super Bowl.....but with much thought, here are my thoughts.......trust me it was tough.....In the AFC I think it will be down to Cincinnati or Denver, but my gut tells me.........</div><div>In the NFC it is almost like a coin toss..the glamorous pick for many is Seattle, and they just might do it...</div><div>I'm not drinking the Dallas cactus juice or the West coast Peace train juice or eating the 49er bandwagon beans, but the NFC IS really up in the air......so with much thought (about ten minutes)......</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>SUPER BOWL MATCH UP</div><div><br></div><div>Cincinnati Bengals (my first thought was Denver, but i kept going back to the Bengals) VS. Seattle Seahawks </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>SUPER BOWL CHAMP</div><div><br></div><div>CINCINNATI BENGALS!!!!!!</div><div><br></div><div>There you go. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-80327943717484935632013-08-31T14:08:00.001-07:002013-09-01T14:12:23.421-07:003 Meals<div>While strolling Magazine St (New Orleans) this weekend, we picked up a copy of the September 2013 issue of <b>OFF BEAT</b> magazine. </div><div>This happened to be the food issue.</div><div>On page 20, the article <i>"Desert Island Dish" </i>caught my eye. The writers wrote about anxiety after Hurricane Katrina on whether or not they would ever be able to enjoy some of their favorite New Orleans dishes.</div><div>I honestly think most of us had that feeling. I know I did. What if some of our favorite restaurants would not re open? </div><div>We did experience this some with restaurants not opening when others did. Some raising their prices just so they can keep the doors open. It was a rough time for the owners and their patrons. </div><div>The writers of this article interviewed several people in the New Orleans music scene on what 3 dishes they would recommend you eat.......just in case something happens (like Katrina) and you won't get to eat them again. </div><div>The article was quite interesting with dishes ranging from the Double-cut grilled pork chop from <i style="font-weight: bold; ">Houston's</i>, to the Blackened redfish at <i style="font-weight: bold; ">Jacques-Imo's</i>, to the Peacemaker po-boy at <i style="font-weight: bold; ">Mahoney's</i>, to the Shrimp and Grits at <i style="font-weight: bold; ">Grand Isle</i>.</div><div>It was a very mouth watering list. (You can check the article out. Pick a copy in the city or go to www.offbeat.com.)</div><div><br></div><div>As usual, reading this got me thinking about some of my favorite dishes.</div><div><br></div><div>I always say that if you told me I can go eat at one restaurant and then I would never eat again, I would have to go to Broussard's in the French Quarter. It is THAT good.</div><div><br></div><div>What 3 dishes would I want to eat if I knew I could never eat again?</div><div>This was actually a very hard thing to think on. I have had so many great dishes in the city. </div><div>So I helped myself by making my own rules. </div><div>I picked my favorite dish (this was the easy part). Then I made myself put a sandwich on the list. And then my last choice would be something great, but not necessarily hard to get.</div><div>The 3 choices I came up with can be put in front of me at any time day or night and I would be happy.</div><div>Of course there were MANY dishes that didn't make the list, but thats not to say they didn't deserve to be on it. </div><div>So here are my three choices: </div><div><br></div><div>The Louisiana Bouillabaisse from <i style="font-weight: bold; ">BROUSSARD'S </i>in the French Quarter. </div><a href="http://www.broussards.com/">http://www.broussards.com/</a><div>This is my favorite dish from my favorite place. It is a tomato saffron stock, chock full of fresh Louisiana seafood. I can literally die aft eating this. I get this dish ( except for three occasions) each time we go to Broussard's. I love it.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tuCTn1XOJHthsyYg18pnVKXHCJhKU2s-Mj4P4Psx7rwiUklMgZIYEYOExiH4TzJdazW2_akC1WjEU0sVakOvqzA_S3ZWw8AiPEOHFvE5VgXxX7xZbIThBjB9FxUeo_hDOvxjJhZnlr2O/s640/blogger-image-1084563851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4tuCTn1XOJHthsyYg18pnVKXHCJhKU2s-Mj4P4Psx7rwiUklMgZIYEYOExiH4TzJdazW2_akC1WjEU0sVakOvqzA_S3ZWw8AiPEOHFvE5VgXxX7xZbIThBjB9FxUeo_hDOvxjJhZnlr2O/s640/blogger-image-1084563851.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmsoh4fCTOOK5NpbZBVJPtKn-tyvNuQ154mfYRc_mPNtUhflQg7KsISosD5qSyGfc2eu0tmnjo8UgB-nH7hMlVakjXGU9S79rfbhtWrqKfllNoNuqj7U1NwXE_XeS-LMwZjriWcudnr1e/s640/blogger-image-559792981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmsoh4fCTOOK5NpbZBVJPtKn-tyvNuQ154mfYRc_mPNtUhflQg7KsISosD5qSyGfc2eu0tmnjo8UgB-nH7hMlVakjXGU9S79rfbhtWrqKfllNoNuqj7U1NwXE_XeS-LMwZjriWcudnr1e/s640/blogger-image-559792981.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>My next choice is a sandwich. </div><div>The Corned Beef and Swiss ( with those delicious French fries at <i style="font-weight: bold; ">CAFE MASPERO </i>in the French Quarter. </div><div><div class="rc" data-hveid="45" style="position: relative; "><a href="http://cafemaspero.com/">http://cafemaspero.com/</a></div><div class="rc" data-hveid="45" style="position: relative; "><br>Really you can't go wrong with anything at MASPERO. But this sandwich is my favorite. Also, I would have the get a bowl of their French onion soup. Every time!</div><div class="rc" data-hveid="45" style="position: relative; "><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUlZYccA5AfR0aG7A6UqHWEm4ckOZiwoYMhZxaVqxHqdjeTIAYhy52MJjdU2TI-hWhU-VaGnVH84lbqEUL-Elu-Hq2AL97vGZU5L8y_jvxoky_5NhGtPCR_lHO7dCEtnTVGUlnDN5_Hlj/s640/blogger-image-37727126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbUlZYccA5AfR0aG7A6UqHWEm4ckOZiwoYMhZxaVqxHqdjeTIAYhy52MJjdU2TI-hWhU-VaGnVH84lbqEUL-Elu-Hq2AL97vGZU5L8y_jvxoky_5NhGtPCR_lHO7dCEtnTVGUlnDN5_Hlj/s640/blogger-image-37727126.jpg"></a></div><br><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span class="st">My last choice is something you can get all over the USA. It is BBQ. But not just any ole BBQ. </span></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span class="st">I LOVE the Brisket plate with 2 sides from <i style="font-weight: bold; ">UGLY DOG SALOON </i>in New Orleans' Warehouse District. </span></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span class="st"><a href="http://www.uglydogsaloon.net/">http://www.uglydogsaloon.net/</a></span></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">When you first step into the Ugly Dog, your nose will tell you that your belly will be happy.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">The menu is small so it is easy on your brain. Each dish comes with 2 sides. I always get the Chilli beans (served in a mug) and either the Slaw or Potato salad. Since this is my blog, I will take both. The food is cheap and Awesome. </div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gj4g71JLlvmN7g5skQPdCi3_IOIvxmz90jgqPPSLAA2OfjU1cSrYL-We-IW6FnnpNpE7lipn9o_RXmQkOyAbLtuulEgxAefm9yl9g1IGIHd1k983NEnu3Kk36bDfwPdsLAsbvT2PWslV/s640/blogger-image-1613136524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4gj4g71JLlvmN7g5skQPdCi3_IOIvxmz90jgqPPSLAA2OfjU1cSrYL-We-IW6FnnpNpE7lipn9o_RXmQkOyAbLtuulEgxAefm9yl9g1IGIHd1k983NEnu3Kk36bDfwPdsLAsbvT2PWslV/s640/blogger-image-1613136524.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Again, this list was hard but the three dishes chosen would make my stomach happy.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">I could have picked several others. But this is my list.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">I thank God often for the blessing of being born and raised in a wonderful area with so much great food. </div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Not being biased but we are truly blessed to live in South Louisiana. </div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">So until your next Crawfish Boil or your next eating trip to the city, Aways thank the Good Lord for what you have and never take for granted the blessings He gives you.</div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br></div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "> </div><div style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br></div></div></div>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-57025184766750450772013-08-31T06:14:00.001-07:002013-08-31T13:13:28.641-07:00Football is here ...Taking the High RoadLSU football that is.....<div>In the past, I have always tried to make predictions. I even went as far as picking champs in each conference, etc. but this year, I won't bore you with the gory details. Plus, I don't think my brain could take all of the thoughts. </div><div>So I will leave it at this. </div><div>Here are just a few predictions to get it started. </div><div>Either LSU or Alabama will win the SEC and whoever does, will also win it all. If you "put a gun to my head" I would (sorry Tigers) pick Bama. But also look out for Florida and S. Carolina. </div><div>Ohio State will play (and lose to) either Bama or LSU in the Championship game. </div><div>Here are a few more NCAA Football predictions. </div><div>Johnny Manziel will Not win the Hiesman Trophy. And it won't be Jadeveon Clowney from S. Carolina either. </div><div>Tulane will win 6 games. </div><div>The SEC will once again rule college football.</div><div>That's about all I have this year.</div><div>Look for my NFL predictions this week. Also we will re-visit my MLB picks to see how they are stacking up. </div><div>GEAUX Tigers! </div><div><br></div>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-70305725564784934242013-08-31T05:27:00.001-07:002013-09-07T07:03:02.830-07:00TTMOLS or OPATAIS or...I have a problem. Or a solution. Or neither. <div>I think way ahead and obsess over it.</div><div>Like when we go on a trip. Sometimes I wish we could plan a trip and I not think about it constantly until a couple of weeks before. </div><div>That, of course, would be impossible. Or would it?</div><div>I talk too much. I talk Too much about things in my head. </div><div>Like books. I'm thinking I need to finish a short story I started reading, before starting a book I just downloaded. The thought is normal, but I think I just said it out loud - twice. </div><div>I don't think I have OCD, Or COD, or TTMOLS, or OPATAIS, or whatever. I can't even spell those. </div><div>In my young adult life, if I would accidentally touch my left knee, I would make sure I would touch my right. Or if I had an itch on my right forearm, I would rub it, but then rub my left. You get the picture. </div><div>Was there something in the water?</div><div>I make a lot of notes, but rarely look at them. And the stuff still gets done. Hmmmm?</div><div>Sometimes I say ( out loud ) that I will try to be quiet for awhile. This never works. </div><div>I talk a lot and am comfortable talking to people, but yet I tend to shy away from the general public, If I can. Weird I know. </div><div>Like this blog. Up until this point, I actually thought of deleting the whole thing ( this post) and moving on. But thoughts are thoughts. </div><div>And if you ever offer me "a penny for my thoughts" you better offer up at least 10 bucks, because I have a lot of them.</div><div>Happy Saturday. Have a thought provoking day and talk about it as much as you want to. </div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiaf3DQJXME9faP80utTN_-ycYcU0LIXh6BL1quTQMO9hbRCeUdmAkwZ4YYeZDvrXutDi1YYCOCpDY8vHM-1nHnRV8WYhHfBuKy5rQYx1L4qdZnEO318aGKZ_9kTeH9l1Wd8QzpyvvuGUT/s640/blogger-image--1204489672.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiaf3DQJXME9faP80utTN_-ycYcU0LIXh6BL1quTQMO9hbRCeUdmAkwZ4YYeZDvrXutDi1YYCOCpDY8vHM-1nHnRV8WYhHfBuKy5rQYx1L4qdZnEO318aGKZ_9kTeH9l1Wd8QzpyvvuGUT/s640/blogger-image--1204489672.jpg"></a></div>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-20449954085281783092013-08-28T18:14:00.001-07:002013-08-28T18:15:26.109-07:00Back to BlogFor a long time now, I have had the desire and urge to get back to blogging on my page. Whatever blocked the actual "getting there" did a great job. If you look, you can see the huge time gap between blogs. <div>It's almost embarrassing. </div><div>But here I am. Going to give it another go. </div><div>The blog will be as it was before. No real frills, but honest, random thoughts. I will write down what clutters my head and mind. Maybe if I write, I can think more clearly. Who knows? </div><div>I will write about things I like. Food, music, sports, God, etc. </div><div>I will touch on sports, but don't worry, every blog won't be about the Dodgers or LSU. I won't make you listen to my music, but hopefully open up your music doors. </div><div>You will get very little politics, if any. Politics actually bore me to tears. I do, however, think that we (as a society) find it very easy to blame politicians or religion on our problems. Maybe that's about all the politics you will get on this blog. </div><div>Anyway, if you read, I hope you enjoy. If you don't.....</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KCQnUJ0pVarpJu-yVrK97i2t4ArNziXukEDZWt2Is1rAB1HmyRwkIkwdoSf8EN24A8F3IBiKQGj_pdokaDF9ffEryMGf8Dg-d7j33LqnXNS9loTNMp6S_WlMDoibfxqm1mMQ0pIUvWNC/s640/blogger-image--1334397631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KCQnUJ0pVarpJu-yVrK97i2t4ArNziXukEDZWt2Is1rAB1HmyRwkIkwdoSf8EN24A8F3IBiKQGj_pdokaDF9ffEryMGf8Dg-d7j33LqnXNS9loTNMp6S_WlMDoibfxqm1mMQ0pIUvWNC/s640/blogger-image--1334397631.jpg"></a></div><br></div></div><div><br></div>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-11448604136718870292013-08-26T18:03:00.001-07:002013-08-26T18:03:29.029-07:00Paying billsPaying bills is a blast. Seriously! Not really, but how can I complain about doing something that I cause. I am the cause and the affect. I affects levy cause myself to have to pay bills. It's the way of the world. I live. I eat. I breath. I pay. I'm not complaining because I am blessed to have a job that affords me a way to pay these bills. One day, I might not have bills. Good Lord willing that day will be before I die. Paying bills is a blast. Now back to paying bills.Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-88861314895631398002013-08-25T06:30:00.001-07:002013-08-25T06:41:39.681-07:00Sunday coffeeThere is nothing like Sunday Morning Coffee. Relaxing, catching up on things. But mainly relaxing. <div>Interesting array of searches and topics transpire on these relaxing morning. </div><div>Some on the search list today......Damascus gas attack. Really sad and leads one to question the world. </div><div>Also the sink hole in Assumption Parish. Crazy video on trees literally getting sucked into the earth. <a href="http://youtu.be/cp7no2B322E">http://youtu.be/cp7no2B322E</a></div><div>This lead to looking at some news headlines. Strange stories: worlds tallest cat. A Massachusetts dentist who used paper clips instead of stainless steel posts for root canals.</div><div>On the search was a map of Damascus and thoughts of the time of Jesus and the Apostle Paul. </div><div>The Tigris River was looked at. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz00XN2SxpC438QKYXsR_zk4gVoLkEN8dYyM2n9zkSj3oBt7DXTiWh4SrMioruSASF2vRPwjfY1jE1tC1Kga4DVwVukwUULEJJA-wWdoLt-1pgXPF2yEPloCVswF3YNh_n-VzihB-ccqL9/s640/blogger-image-1382548067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz00XN2SxpC438QKYXsR_zk4gVoLkEN8dYyM2n9zkSj3oBt7DXTiWh4SrMioruSASF2vRPwjfY1jE1tC1Kga4DVwVukwUULEJJA-wWdoLt-1pgXPF2yEPloCVswF3YNh_n-VzihB-ccqL9/s640/blogger-image-1382548067.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>That is really an impressive river. It brought on thoughts of (which I have often) where exactly was the Garden of Eden? Could it still be there, hidden and tucked away?</div><div>I know there is only one true way to know.</div>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-63147418502786667522013-08-24T07:44:00.001-07:002013-08-24T07:48:42.592-07:00Testing blogger app<div><br></div><div>Random pics. Now looking for spell check. Maybe is I misspell a word. Like technology . Wow this thing works. </div><div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_qUJgEuDghFMkJO74PsR2ogtYLtMmIsBn5DhnLCzTH1vuij9VQRLidSDMyas_WDFAg9DlcGOpcu6Ol4Ab246ZE_zsp8sq4ciyX_ZHlfIz8kPLtnnYrNWgWOxeLtKLVJCbnnhh78Mu-Zl/s640/blogger-image--1670185156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_qUJgEuDghFMkJO74PsR2ogtYLtMmIsBn5DhnLCzTH1vuij9VQRLidSDMyas_WDFAg9DlcGOpcu6Ol4Ab246ZE_zsp8sq4ciyX_ZHlfIz8kPLtnnYrNWgWOxeLtKLVJCbnnhh78Mu-Zl/s640/blogger-image--1670185156.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaJUqswXMRPe7KRbEePMj_P_aPxUty8v8N5Nh-auiCBRZuOcTsBYgCYz5yULX_pzrMo2yqOXdKYkGYEiOzX5SJvzo06WfCtiAHZUR63V7VHJE-JOdaLFsKjloi7AEF7t1XnI63l12dQQUd/s640/blogger-image-1192700444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaJUqswXMRPe7KRbEePMj_P_aPxUty8v8N5Nh-auiCBRZuOcTsBYgCYz5yULX_pzrMo2yqOXdKYkGYEiOzX5SJvzo06WfCtiAHZUR63V7VHJE-JOdaLFsKjloi7AEF7t1XnI63l12dQQUd/s640/blogger-image-1192700444.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-40872943931803001022013-01-13T06:31:00.000-08:002013-01-13T06:31:06.499-08:00Lance, Lance, Lance<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.09375); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;"><div>
The stories came out the other day that Lance Armstong will openly admit he used banned substances during some or all (not sure on the time frame) of his cycling career. </div>
<div>
When I read that he was thinking about it a while back! My first thought was "why didn't you just admit it a long time ago." </div>
<div>
Now that he says he will admit it, I have the same thought.</div>
<div>
You see, when he first came into professional cycling, I did not care for the brash, young cocky kid from Texas. He had star potential, but he was cocky. In fact, his first Tour De France was not very successful. He did win a stage, but he finished 97th overall and he quit after stage 12.</div>
<div>
But he stuck it out and trained hard and as most know, in 1996 he developed testicular cancer. In 1997 he was declared cancer free. </div>
<div>
His amazing story of cancer survival would have been enough for many to look up to and look for him for moral support and inspiration. But he took it many steps further. In 1997 he started the Lance Armtrong Foundation for Cancer support. And in 1999 he won the first of his record 7 Tour De France titles.</div>
<div>
That was an incredible ride. Millions of people were inspired by his wins. And the notoriety helped springboard his foundation in massive ways.</div>
<div>
Then the doping allegations began. If you know cycling, doping allegations are a big part of it. If you win, trust me someone will accuse you of cheating. That's the way it is. And if you win <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://0" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0" x-apple-data-detectors="true">7 in a row</a>, look out. Armstong never failed a doping test. The proof, to me, was in the pudding. I was flabbergasted at the allegations. I was even disappointed in and had negative vibes against Greg LeMond who spoke out against Armstong. Greg LeMond was one of my cycling heroes. That was tough for me.</div>
<div>
Through all of this, I became a Lance Armstrong fan. I rooted for his survival and his victories. I supported him in my heart because I knew and believed he was innocent of these doping allegations. I felt that he had one of those special places in sport. A place where not many make it. </div>
<div>
And throughout his testimonies and defense of the doping, I believed him. I actually argued with people about his innocence.</div>
<div>
When the story first broke about him being stripped of his Tour De France titles, I made sure I wore my Livestrong bracelet that day. Not only for the cancer support but in support of him and in defiance of anyone who would curse his name.</div>
<div>
But recently, I came to the realization that he did cheat. He did lie. And for that I am deeply disappointed.</div>
<div>
So Lance just make a quick press conference and say you lied, say you cheated and admit to the doping. Done. Forgiven. Move on.</div>
<div>
But now I hear that he is going to do an interview on the Oprah show to admit he doped. Well actually it says he will apologize and he will make a limited confession. </div>
<div>
Come on!!!!! You can do that by announcing a press conference. </div>
<div>
I'm not saying this because of my feelings about Oprah. I don't really care for her actually. But Why do you have to go on a big stage like that? </div>
<div>
Just say it!!!!!!!!!!!</div>
<div>
So with that said, I personally forgive Lance for the past and so should everyone else. But going on the Oprah show to give a "confession" leaves a bad taste. </div>
<div>
What's the agenda?</div>
<div>
What's the motive?</div>
<div>
And, for the record, I won't watch.</div>
<div>
And now I take a step down ..... Off of the Soap Box. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</span>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-25625340499470634392013-01-01T15:37:00.000-08:002013-01-01T15:37:05.491-08:00From the DVD rack
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We watched
some really good movies recently. Movies are such a great way to relax and
enjoy time “away from life.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is the
short list of some of the movies we watched of late.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">MOONRISE
KINGDOM (Bill Murray, Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Frances McDormand, and many
others). </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDiCd_NAt680sXCixlsHzc5qYi__NMBjq91A_op_cYAVGIb7H0eCDC6gwlRqegPq8UmlXgigLyfi5lppN_zPqDhGxSlYXgrAGnHlV_lEeyQmKZxFnM8cUJmLbigwBIRHnvJVWvjVVPdjmr/s1600/MV5BMTEwMTc3NDkzOTJeQTJeQWpwZ15BbWU3MDI4NTAwNzc@__V1__SY317_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDiCd_NAt680sXCixlsHzc5qYi__NMBjq91A_op_cYAVGIb7H0eCDC6gwlRqegPq8UmlXgigLyfi5lppN_zPqDhGxSlYXgrAGnHlV_lEeyQmKZxFnM8cUJmLbigwBIRHnvJVWvjVVPdjmr/s1600/MV5BMTEwMTc3NDkzOTJeQTJeQWpwZ15BbWU3MDI4NTAwNzc@__V1__SY317_.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is one
of those “quirky films. If you don’t like quirky, don’t watch this film.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The movie is about a pair of young lovers who
flee from their New England town, which causes a local search party to look for
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At some points in the movie I
thought some scenes may be a little over the top, but basically the movie is an
innocent tale of two kids who think they know how to get on with life. Set in
the mid 60’s, this film has everything from a Great Storm, the Khaki Scouts,
and an orphanage. It is a good DVD to watch with an open mind.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">THE RAVEN
(John Cusack, Alice Eve)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdb76_AprTJR5w7SLbndc8tc3ctfgHnSpfh4We7OXXZvc9U-LE9_DsTGdYS4BTZs1qtNxNxSkEUeq_BOdJXO78Fw4L2WlO2tYXMea3d519viLGkcjXNs12fBlTTPzzYUC_S0yf82E4gSSD/s1600/MV5BMjE4MjU4ODUxOF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMTk5NTY2Nw@@__V1__SY317_CR0,0,214,317_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdb76_AprTJR5w7SLbndc8tc3ctfgHnSpfh4We7OXXZvc9U-LE9_DsTGdYS4BTZs1qtNxNxSkEUeq_BOdJXO78Fw4L2WlO2tYXMea3d519viLGkcjXNs12fBlTTPzzYUC_S0yf82E4gSSD/s1600/MV5BMjE4MjU4ODUxOF5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMTk5NTY2Nw@@__V1__SY317_CR0,0,214,317_.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Edgar Allen
Poe fans (which I am) and non - Poe fans should like this one. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t watch it expecting Poe’s life story (on
the surface) but what you get is MUCH of Poe’s life in a Detective Thriller. The
IMDB tag line for this movie is right on. : The only one who can stop a serial
killer is the man who inspired him.” Cusack portrays Edgar Allen Poe
brilliantly. You see, Poe is considered by many the inventor of the detective
fiction genre. He also had a hand in contributing to the genre of Science Fiction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The movie touches on many true aspects of Poe’s
real life. His lack of money for some of it. The mystification surrounding the
cause of his death, etc. Poe was found on the streets of Baltimore “in great
distress” He was never coherent long enough to explain how he got that way. The
movie touches on this with a small twist of fiction. I love this movie because of
the great story and thriller that it is and the fact of the many true aspects
of his life trickled in. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will enjoy
this film.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">THE LORD OF
THE RINGS TRILOGY<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01udwFCvVaYDxu0cJBRgQmaRaeM4P7hQHiiEzz4D7C3NVTnwMI9tF49LBSmtsVKR_yhp8qCMQaj14fhjsOaJTRh08f1QlN6JIUqzgFSXAMwmnuCFV5vglluA-gbVNnvrQu0cmsYNOZNW-/s1600/MV5BNTEyMjAwMDU1OV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNDQyNTkxMw@@__V1__SY317_CR1,0,214,317_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01udwFCvVaYDxu0cJBRgQmaRaeM4P7hQHiiEzz4D7C3NVTnwMI9tF49LBSmtsVKR_yhp8qCMQaj14fhjsOaJTRh08f1QlN6JIUqzgFSXAMwmnuCFV5vglluA-gbVNnvrQu0cmsYNOZNW-/s1600/MV5BNTEyMjAwMDU1OV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwNDQyNTkxMw@@__V1__SY317_CR1,0,214,317_.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We saws (this
is intentional – my small tribute to Gollum) THE HOBBIT: An Unexpected Journey,
recently at the Cinema and when we came home, we agreed that we should watch the
Lord of the Rings movies. So we did. These are awesome. Enough said.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">HOPE SPRINGS
(Meryl Streep, Tommy Lee Jones, Steve Carell)<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5noZ0tKTtDKjImzQUMHkiO4eh9DJaix30XlfH9VbN4TA91otzCAIybyid7Nm05h1k3VtlJ_3JbB4sHRvaTv1GQK8hoFC_B-7yec-yalzA9n29gM-mYVqPi5V0tdybodr1opB8WVy6Gbh_/s1600/MV5BMjIxODY2OTg2N15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwODAyODg5Nw%2540%2540__V1__SY317_CR2%252C0%252C214%252C317_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5noZ0tKTtDKjImzQUMHkiO4eh9DJaix30XlfH9VbN4TA91otzCAIybyid7Nm05h1k3VtlJ_3JbB4sHRvaTv1GQK8hoFC_B-7yec-yalzA9n29gM-mYVqPi5V0tdybodr1opB8WVy6Gbh_/s1600/MV5BMjIxODY2OTg2N15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwODAyODg5Nw%2540%2540__V1__SY317_CR2%252C0%252C214%252C317_.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">From IMDB: “After
thirty years of marriage, a middle-aged couple attends an intense, week-long
counseling session to work on their relationship.” This movie has comedy, but
it also gives you a serious story about couples who drift apart, while being
together. Streep’s character finally has enough and in her soft spoken, non -
confrontational way, basically saves her marriage (in many different ways).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">THE WORDS (Bradley
Cooper, Dennis Quaid, Jeremy Irons, Zoe Saldana)<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9wNW1x8KsYIrqsy-3ftgRH8otcqLHNx2K0Ng-m7RNfM6yjMLAZ_Sk2lsrPyzseNTC5K8RZz257lxd0Y6XGVHqm9xiUQBa7wTa2g5jAO6TEzZ3dNxnx1ZklP-yjFM4vp-WWsMdgSDM1NMj/s1600/MV5BMTM2NjgyMjI3OV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMDkxMjIyOA%2540%2540__V1__SY317_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9wNW1x8KsYIrqsy-3ftgRH8otcqLHNx2K0Ng-m7RNfM6yjMLAZ_Sk2lsrPyzseNTC5K8RZz257lxd0Y6XGVHqm9xiUQBa7wTa2g5jAO6TEzZ3dNxnx1ZklP-yjFM4vp-WWsMdgSDM1NMj/s1600/MV5BMTM2NjgyMjI3OV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMDkxMjIyOA%2540%2540__V1__SY317_.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We saw
previews t this while watching Hope Springs. This is a really excellent movie. It’s
a story about a struggling writer who encounters a piece of work – by chance –
but through circumstances, he becomes successful because of it. The tale follows
the writer as he struggles, decides, does not speak up, and then encounters
someone that could change his life. You won’t think of it as you watch, but the
movie has a couple of mild twists. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In my
opinion, any of these movies are worth the time to watch. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-62079456624782928512012-12-30T17:32:00.001-08:002012-12-30T17:55:24.829-08:00FARTS IN THE WILD<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">At our Christmas Eve Christmas party this year, we played
THAT game. You know the one, the “steal the gift” game, the “gag gift” game, “the
elephant gift” game. This year we had the party at my sister's house. I had asked
her prior to the party, if we were going to play that game or was it my
imagination (I wasn’t sure if I heard talk about it). She said yes. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Then I totally forgot to tell my wife so we didn't bring gag
gifts. My sister, being ever prepared, had extra. So I played. And I came away
with a remarkable gift. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>FARTS IN THE WILD, a spotter’s guide</em> by H.W. Smeldit (I’m
not making this stuff up) – Illustrated by Jared Chapman. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDZsOphy3e9bU7cYnasuTn-SzmkDch0kFi9s0QIo1aJr5XxKYzb_hjimNipEw5-FpNMZeBsHx5pFbyOR4qQYz7YzCyOUjFL9IojH-gL2OcF0z0tqJNT4zqe23iuUpg-AIaCAhkxOIygVw/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGDZsOphy3e9bU7cYnasuTn-SzmkDch0kFi9s0QIo1aJr5XxKYzb_hjimNipEw5-FpNMZeBsHx5pFbyOR4qQYz7YzCyOUjFL9IojH-gL2OcF0z0tqJNT4zqe23iuUpg-AIaCAhkxOIygVw/s1600/photo.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">This book is fascinating. It is very scientific. It is –
simply – a book about animal flatulation.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(SO IF YOU ARE STILL READING THIS, I APOLOGISE IN ADVANCE) <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">It starts with Fart Basics. “All fartologists know the basic
rule of farting. If it eats … sooner or later, it farts.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The book goes on to say, “When animals … eat,
we swallow air along with our food. Air is made up of gases, mostly oxygen. As we
digest and the bacteria in our guts break down that food, the gases produce
more gas. In fact, digestion can produce so many different gases you’d
practically need a notebook to keep track of them all: nitrogen, carbon
dioxide, hydrogen, methane, dimethyl sulfide, and more.” The book goes on to
say, “This stew of gases eventually works its way out …..” <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">You get the picture.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The book tells us about 10 different animal farts and gives
examples. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The attached video gives us a few. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-picasa-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenb5geHxVT2JITTipah06-YNuWIjpcAKgaRBNadDf4myJamJSZLuYaQTXlpy8x5bPaG7YHmww6AXEgDl11Ooi7sqeNYPwd_m_UlOkdbZjoJ0ebXEuquoyGPjOexMG0v7-jyLKcdmjydsU/s1600/IMG_2720.MOV" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3Df04c0290a01411f0%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1359509407%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3DA0F7633A74227A544B73827E37357D19BEBCC1D9.2E99CCB6E350E6BF09E0869898245FCC2A890737%26key%3Dlh1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3Df04c0290a01411f0%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1359509407%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3DA0F7633A74227A544B73827E37357D19BEBCC1D9.2E99CCB6E350E6BF09E0869898245FCC2A890737%26key%3Dlh1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: x-small;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">So, if you are still reading …….. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-25752730018816636162012-12-30T14:38:00.003-08:002012-12-30T14:38:51.287-08:00Best Buys<span style="font-size: x-small;">This segment is dedicated to really good buys.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">One of the best buys I have made in all of my life is a ............................. shoe horn.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">That's right, a shoe horn. Not just any shoe horn, but a 99 cent shoe horn. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This thing is made of thick, highly durable plastic. It has lasted for almost 2 years now and still shows no sign of wear. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I use it almost everyday and I just bought a second one to use as a back scratcher.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I could use the same one for a shoe horn and back scratcher, but it was only 99 cents. If it were 1.99, I would have probably opted to use the same one, but 99 cents ............</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">One of the best buys ...ever.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2dwcCoFYeuw_pzFoUT841RTr8CwSI3B975LhnpAPn6rqgwKZQQylPnHhGqcz23Ixf2pu4aNNfEtCYtpt8ImRwLNJj0CnNIm8DN0hfWbcyER4o1YL4T2YBeq3i3IW3x0IitceM_I0Q7m8/s1600/shoe+horn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA2dwcCoFYeuw_pzFoUT841RTr8CwSI3B975LhnpAPn6rqgwKZQQylPnHhGqcz23Ixf2pu4aNNfEtCYtpt8ImRwLNJj0CnNIm8DN0hfWbcyER4o1YL4T2YBeq3i3IW3x0IitceM_I0Q7m8/s1600/shoe+horn.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jHXz7zKB1lyagrKpfqQ1t-UHCtEeKOl7jO76BmCy5wGJOVsD1AKf2ZvJXIq6BQUX-UKD6IYP7KqoMTr6Zc5hQXAqvWg7nEOi6Segz-Tm0pwyaInBeTGlEIWh4YgaGpcm8yiwo9Bhvw9l/s1600/shoe+horn+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jHXz7zKB1lyagrKpfqQ1t-UHCtEeKOl7jO76BmCy5wGJOVsD1AKf2ZvJXIq6BQUX-UKD6IYP7KqoMTr6Zc5hQXAqvWg7nEOi6Segz-Tm0pwyaInBeTGlEIWh4YgaGpcm8yiwo9Bhvw9l/s1600/shoe+horn+2.JPG" /></a></div>
Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-45459781798113109072012-12-23T07:37:00.002-08:002012-12-23T07:37:41.387-08:00Retreat, But Never SurrenderRETREAT, BUT NEVER SURRENDER<br />
<em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Written Dec. 17 and 18, 2012)</span></em>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">At the table, in front of the window, the remarkable distraction of the lake and the powerful serenity of God’s creation, make it almost impossible to put thoughts to pen and pen to paper. It makes me wish I had my tape recorder…press record and just speak.
I can’t help but look up from the page every few seconds just to take it all in. Peace, life, hope, refresh, retreat. These are but a few words that enter my mind.
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We are in the Bender House – Room 8, at Pine Lake Fellowship Camp (Meridian, MS). This is the PERFECT place for a relaxing getaway. The perfect setting to retreat from life’s ups and downs, hardships, work, anxieties, etc.
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It is only fitting that the devotional I am reading this week is based off of Rhett Smith’s book, <strong>The Anxious Christian:</strong> <strong>Can God Use Your Anxiety for Good?</strong>
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Anxiety, in whatever form it comes, is one of the things that many people need a break from. Some, even on a retreat, find it hard to get rid of anxiety. In his book, Smith referred to Danish philosopher, Soren Kierkegaard. He says that “Kierkegaard referred to anxiety as our ‘best teacher’ because of its ability to keep us in a struggle that strives for a solution, rather than opting to forfeit the struggle and slide into a possible depression.”
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">What make us anxious? For me, it is probably my career. Trust me this is a job that I am so blessed to have, and a position that I have been working toward obtaining. But none the less, I have many responsibilities that affect many people. I have to depend on many people and many functions and parts and plans to make the end result a success. For the record, just because someone is anxious about a job, doesn’t make them a complainer.
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Retreating from everyday life and just letting go while in this peaceful place seems easy, but our hectic, fast paced lives are always tugging at our coat tails.
I think retreating from the hectic, the stress, the anxiety, the real life is an always needed time in our lives. If you are going through other trials; battles with addictions, medical battles, pain, depression, healing, and personal tugs – of –war, some sort of retreat can be helpful. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I am the type that lets my every day activities creep into my mind often. Even when I am having quiet, reflecting time, I have to fight off thoughts of the day ahead. That is something many people fight. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Retreating and getting away – wherever that may be – helps. We can retreat to a “cabin in the woods” or our own back yards. We can get away by the river, on the swing, or in a quiet place in our homes.
Remember, when we retreat, it does not mean we are giving up. It does not mean surrender to the trials we face. When the retreat is over, life keeps going. We have to go back to work and school and life. Anxieties and such will be there. But, after a retreat, you can hit the ground running with a re-charged attitude. When you retreat, whether it be with a loved one or alone, you must take someone with you. Or there is one you must seek and find.
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">God.
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">He will always help us not to surrender. He is our anchor. British poet, Lord Alfred Tennyson wrote “Cast tour cares on God; that anchor holds.”
In Smith’s book, he wrote “You might be experiencing all kinds of anxiety, worry, and panic. And those feelings might be keeping you captive and holding you back from the abundant life God is calling you to. But I want you to know that God is not finished with us. He has only just begun. And if we take the risk and step out in faith, he is there to guide our anxiety toward a fruitful endeavor in order that we may grow into the person he desires us to become. Anxiety beckons us to not allow our lives to get stuck in a rut. Perhaps anxiety is a paradoxical feeling offered up to us as a gift that propels us to seek after him and to continually grow in the process. Perhaps anxiety is an act of grace because it encourages us to face our fears, so that we can then choose to freely follow God where he is calling us.”
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Christmas is one week away (at the time of this writing). </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It is a time for Joy, Peace, Hope and Love. But it is also a time of depression and worry. It is a time of angst and concern for many. God gave us the BEST gift many, many years ago. Jesus was born on Christmas Day.
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">My original note said “Don’t be depressed this Christmas.” But who am I to tell anyone that? But I will write that if you are depressed or feeling nervous for any reason this Christmas season (or any other time), look to God. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Seek Him. Realize His gift to you and me. Hold it. Relish it. Accept it. Love it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
And when we feel life’s pressures, grab that gift, retreat. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">But never surrender!</span>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">note: the day, after we came back home from our getaway, I went back to work. At 1255 that day, I basically forgot about my relaxing time.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I did recover and God reminded me twice the next day.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I read Proverbs and in Ch. 24 verse 10, it said "If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your strength!"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">and later that day a guy was showing me his bible app on his phone, the verse of the day was James 1:12. Look this verse up and you will know what I mean.</span>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-33869935689428374542012-02-21T19:20:00.002-08:002012-02-21T19:28:48.476-08:00You may Be ..."You may be deceived if you trust too much, but you will live in torment if you do not trust enough." <br /><br />Frank CraneWade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-45967663118027722792012-02-21T06:55:00.001-08:002012-02-21T06:57:17.028-08:00SometimesS O M E T I M E S (note. I borrowed this)<br /><br />Sometimes...<br /><br />when you cry....<br /><br />no one sees your tears.<br /><br /><br /><br />Sometimes...<br /><br />when you are in pain.<br /><br />no one sees your hurt.<br /><br /><br /><br />Sometimes.<br /><br />when you are worried..<br /><br />no one sees your stress<br />Sometimes..<br /><br />when you are happy..<br /><br />no one sees your smile ....<br /><br /><br /><br />-<br /><br />-<br /><br />-<br />-<br /><br />But fart just ONE flippin' time....<br /><br />And everybody knows!!Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-31113979293957050232012-01-31T11:15:00.000-08:002012-01-31T11:31:49.700-08:00FutureI have a doctor's appointment today. I like to try to come early. Sometimes they take me early. Before I got to the hospital I got real hungry. So I tried to stop somewhere semi healthy ( did not want to load up on fries an coke before getting blood pressure checked). I ended up at Quiznos. So as I ate I watched this elderly couple. They had to be in their late 80s ( or older). I watched them and just enjoyed what I saw. They were happy. They were together. They were inspiring. I can't lie to you as I watched I just smiled and I felt one of my eyes begin to well up. ( Christina Perri's song Arms played in the background and it added to the scene in front of me). As the couple finished their lunch, just like he probably did for many years, the gentleman picked up the ladies tray. He held the door for her and of course opened the car door for her ( by the way. They got into a brand new Red Ford Fusion). I finished my lunch and thought about my own future with my beautiful wife. When we are that age, And I take her to lunch, hopefully we can be an inspiration to others. ( for the record. There are many couples who inspire me - my parents and many others).Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-91448331737667164222012-01-24T08:19:00.000-08:002012-01-24T08:54:51.199-08:00Another Remedy for Hiccups?<span style="font-size:85%;">I came across another remedy for Hiccups.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Awhile back, I blogged about a remedy for hiccups.</span><br /><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;">See the link from my archives (2009) ...</span></p><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;">I must say, I thought it was a decent read...<br /></span><a href="http://copiouscogitations.blogspot.com/2009/02/laundry-list.html">http://copiouscogitations.blogspot.com/2009/02/laundry-list.html</a></p><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;">Today I came across another cure ....I will be sure to try it next time I get the hiccups....</span></p><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;">I got it off of the always informative Old Farmer's almanac Calendar...</span></p><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;">It says..... "HICCUP CURE ... Rub an earlobe between your thumb and forefinger."</span></p><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></p><br /><p><span style="font-size:85%;">We will see if it works ...until them Hiccup</span></p><br /><p></p><br /><p></p><br /><p><br /></p><span style="font-size:85%;"></span>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-176967531640834922012-01-19T18:52:00.000-08:002012-01-19T19:38:12.421-08:00Hebrew<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAV7Ko6fT-lCwXJ6xK6vf2QcgEsOcn4iLfGdSlEFWvcSEvHScKm7Y6ejTgGCWTs75krFthLfHz7I85sd5_6_FlEYgVTvZfstLIJ3v44lPf2dVq0jvfCC5y2T-arRBHys3jYGio5EzD4l0Q/s1600/hebrew.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 150px; height: 200px; float: left; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699552463679302114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAV7Ko6fT-lCwXJ6xK6vf2QcgEsOcn4iLfGdSlEFWvcSEvHScKm7Y6ejTgGCWTs75krFthLfHz7I85sd5_6_FlEYgVTvZfstLIJ3v44lPf2dVq0jvfCC5y2T-arRBHys3jYGio5EzD4l0Q/s200/hebrew.jpg" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-size:85%;">Last week we went to the store. A brew with the word MESSIAH caught our eyes.</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">After looking at one of the bottles, it was a must buy.</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">Shmaltz Brewing Company's Hebrew Brewing (Saratoga Springs, NY) brews their Messiah Nut Brown Ale. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">Sometime a catchy name or slogan doesn't always equal a tasty product. But Shmaltz does a fine job backing up their packaging with a nice product. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">The packaging:</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">The bottle is cool. It catches the eye in its Hebrew label. The label almost forces you to read it in it's entirety. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">This is a quote from the bottle. "Why is this beer different from all other beers? As commanded, we at Hebrew Beer have been fruitful and multiplied our offerings. Tradition teaches that the Messiah's name is Shalom - Peace. With your first sip of this rich, dark, and delicious libation, we hope to offer a momentary taste of microbrewed bliss. If you feel the sudden urge to beat your swords into the ploughshares (Isaiah 2:4) or to picnic with the lion and the lamb (Isaiah 11:6) ... Rejoice! Now, our award - winning brewers can't claim supernatural powers - simply a fanatical commitment to brewing world-class beers: A truly scrumptious mitzvah (good deed)! May your cups runneth over with the blessings of great beer and great shtick. To Life ... L'Chaim!"</span></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">The product:</span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">This is a simple but complex brew. It is one of the best Nut Browns I have tried. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">The brew is made with Specialty 2 row, Carapils, Dark Crystal, Chocalate, CaraMunich 60 and Kiln Amber Malts. It is also brewed with Warrior, Cascade and Liberty Hops. </span> </div><div><span style="font-size:85%;">Check it out.</span></div><div><a href="http://www.shmaltzbrewing.com">http://www.shmaltzbrewing.com</a></div>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-4015671678979788632012-01-18T17:18:00.001-08:002012-01-18T17:18:45.755-08:00A Mostly true Story<span style="font-size:85%;">A mostly true story.<br /><br />(95% of this tale is true)<br /><br />One of my co workers had an out patient procedure. The<br />result was his doctor telling him he may have to stop consuming certain foods.<br />Here is the conversation.<br /><br />Co worker (cw): the<br />doctor told me I have to stop drinking beer.<br /><br />Me: why is that?<br /><br />Cw: I may have to stop eating things with processed type<br />things. Certain processed wheat and grains and stuff. The additives they put in<br />beers, etc.<br /><br />Me: what kind of beer do you drink. I know a few organic<br />brews.<br /><br />Cw: I drink bud light.<br /><br />Me: well that isn't a big loss. But I know a couple of beers<br />with all natural ingredients.<br /><br />Cw: Like what? natural<br />light?<br /><br /></span>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-15772431750045449492012-01-15T20:32:00.000-08:002012-01-15T20:34:08.577-08:00The Devil In Sports<span style="font-size:85%;">The Devil in Sports<br /><br /><br />Why do we, as fans get so worked up about sports?<br />This past week has been rough for the locals. LSU loses the<br />National Championship game and the Saints losing in the NFC playoffs.<br />We (I’m not speaking for others – but assuming) get worked up<br />and spin ourselves into a tizzy.<br />For what? For sports.<br />There is a fine line between getting worked up and … well,<br />getting worked up. A fine line between being a fan and a failure. A fine line between<br />excitement and anger.<br />Is it ok to get excited?<br />To get mad or angry when things go wrong. Should we sit back and let it<br />build inside?<br />Who knows? I don’t. But I do know that anger and getting close to<br />tipping that cup can hurt others and lead to things people can regret.<br />The problem with getting too excited is that the more you get<br />to the edge of that spectrum, the closer you get to being angry if things don’t<br />go well. Then the chances of hollering and cussing and getting so stressed – it<br />can make you bust.<br />When you have extreme passion in a team – in a sport – that is<br />ok. But when is it not ok? That passion – in certain events can steadily turn<br />into anger.<br />That is why I titled this The Devil In Sports. The devil<br />wants us to fly off the handle. He wants us to go on a cussing rampage. He<br />wants us to waste our energy on getting aggravated.<br />Let’s take the recent Saints game. Up and down emotions. The<br />Saints take the lead late – they got this. Then they let the other team take<br />the lead. Stress but excitement. Then the Saints take the lead with a quick TD<br />strike. We got this. Then out of nowhere, the other team scores with 9 seconds<br />to go. Even if – in most cases the Saints win, the emotions brought out when<br />things looked bleak – or when a stupid play happened – everyone feels better.<br />But can the negative words or thoughts that came out during the bleak times<br />just go away? No.<br />So, in sports My emotions have gone to over the top status. If<br />you are reading this, please don’t think I am a maniac and get pissed off every<br />time I watch sports, but as a man, as a husband, as a father and as a grandfather,<br />I am not afraid to admit that I am not the best when my team does bad. Once<br />when I was a kid, the Dodgers lost to the Cardinals in the NLCS. All I wanted<br />to do was get my pellet gun and go shoot Cardinals in the woods.<br />So, to the point of this…<br />There are so many more important things to spend our Energy<br />on. I didn’t say time, but energy. In energy I mean the stress we spend on sports.<br />The excitement will always be there. But like the duck – I will<br />try to let stuff in sports roll off the back.<br />When I think of hurts like Baby Tripp. The 2 year old hero<br />who had Epidermolysis Bullosa. He passed away yesterday.<br />Kids who go hungry every day. Kids who have no homes. People<br />who lose in life – lose loved ones, etc. People who succumb to abuses of drugs<br />and alcohol and hurt their loved ones and themselves.<br />Families devastated by cancer and other terminal diseases.<br />Families who are devastated by untimely deaths.<br />There are so many worthy causes and issues we can stress and spend<br />time about. Causes and people we can spend our time and energy on.<br />Sports should not be one of them.<br />Watching and loving sports will always be a part of the world<br />and part of me, but the anger and upsetting moments when the favorite team<br />loses, hopefully won’t be a part of me.<br />We shall see. I get a little reprieve with hoops. I love<br />basketball, but don’t seem to get stressed about it as much as LSU and dodger<br />baseball – or football.<br />Time will tell, hopefully I…we.. can concentrate on the<br />important things in life and let a loss or bad play roll off the back.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-76594090294053419092012-01-11T05:14:00.000-08:002012-01-11T05:15:19.214-08:00My Last College Football post of the season<span style="font-size:85%;">First, I haven't posted much so this may my first.<br /><br />Alabama - LSU.<br />1- Face it, the better team won.<br />2 - Bama defense was a beast.<br />3 - their offense helped their defense.<br />4 - LSU defense played good and hard.<br />5 - LSU defense had to go up against the Bama offense and<br />it's own offense. The LSU offense hurt our defense Period.<br />6 - play calling and play in general was terrible.<br />7 - but with all that said. It is my fault. I wore red<br />shorts during the game.<br /><br />See ya next year. But first.... One prediction.<br /><br />The SEC will win a 7th straight title next year.<br /></span>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-14692323170406411962012-01-07T08:47:00.000-08:002012-01-07T08:52:45.922-08:00From the Old Farmer's Almanac 2012 desk Calendar"He who is of calm and happy nature will hardly feel the pressure of age." <em>Plato, Greek philosopher (c.428-348 B.C.)</em><br /><em></em><br /><em></em><br />BEAUTY TIP<br />To relieve dry, itchy skin, add a cup of apple cider vinegar to your bathwater. Soak for at least 15 minutes.<br /><br /><br />"We do not remember days, we remember moments. the richness of life lies in memories we have forgotten." <em>Cesare Pavese, Italian writer (1905-1950)</em>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-54390387189798099442012-01-02T12:59:00.001-08:002012-01-02T13:02:09.494-08:002012<span style="font-size:85%;">As 2012 begins<br /><br />I never do resolutions. Maybe when I was a kid. But this year I thought of a few goals. I<br />probably set goals often but don't often think of them. That's not to say they<br />don't get accomplished.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">So here are some things I want to accomplish in 2012.<br /><br />Read the bible through this year. My wife and I will do this together. It will be fun<br />and I am sure much discussion will come of it.<br /><br />I want to read more period. I love to read but lately I haven't read much. 2011 was<br />probably my lowest reading output, in terms of # of books.<br />I don't want to put a number on it but I would like to get over double digits. Low total for<br />many buy a good start for me.<br />Some of the books on my hit list: a re-read of Kurt Vonnegut's Cat's Cradle, maybe another<br />one or two KV re-reads; John Grisham's The Confession ( I already started this<br />in 2011 - I haven't touched it in 3 weeks - it is a great book, I've been busy); Walter Isaacson's<br />Einstein. I have had this book on my shelf for awhile with every intention to read. I will read it this year; any Ted Dekker novel I haven't read yet; I would like to re- read some classics also - maybe something by<br />Jules Verne, Hesse or anyone really; I want to read some of the books that my<br />devotionals come from; Another book on my shelf that I want to read is Myron S.<br />Augsburger's The Fugitive (Menno Simons).<br />I need to stop typing and start reading.<br /><br />I want to do a Bucket list. Just for fun. If I write one I will post it.<br /><br />I want to Write more. Just write in general. I have so many projects either started on<br />paper on in my head. I just want to write more and the rest will fall into<br />place.<br /><br />I want to be more consistent with blog posts.<br /><br />I want to be an all around better person.<br /><br />I want to serve more. Not just serving the less fortunate<br />but all who need and in whatever way they need. I am so blessed in my life and<br />I don't think I do what the Lord wants me to from a service standpoint.<br /><br />I want to communicate better in an all around way.<br /><br />I want to relax more. Maybe with more reading and more<br />writing that will happen. I want to take at least one nap a month.<br /><br />I want to love and take care of my family more. That should<br />be a goal for everyone.<br /><br />I probably have many more things I want to accomplish in<br />2012 but if I don't stop typing I won't accomplish anything.<br /><br />So happy New Year and Merry Christmas. Jesus was born so<br />that he could die for us. So everyday is Christmas.<br /><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"></span>Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1211237768699434338.post-7547430204328558382011-12-18T06:37:00.000-08:002011-12-18T06:39:38.358-08:00Better Than Fortune Cookie LogicI love Chinese food.<br />And although I rarely eat the cookie, I like to read the fortune inside of it.<br />Some fortunes are good. Some are not so good.<br />Some are true. Others are just words.<br />In a devotion this week I was reading from the book of Proverbs.<br />I thought, some of this stuff would be great in fortune cookies.<br />The Bible is full of awesome messages. The entire book is a message.<br />I was looking at Proverbs again recently and you can really fill an entire warehouse full if cookies with these messages.<br />And ALL would be great. And ALL are true. <br /><br />Proverbs starts like this. (from the NIV Bible). "The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young - let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance - for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise."<br /><br />As I was reading and skimming through, here are some that I decided to jot down.<br /><br />"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." Proverbs 1:7<br /><br />"Do not plot harm against your neighbor, who lives trustfully near you." 3:29<br /><br />"Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you." 4:6<br /><br />"Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth." 10:4<br /><br />"When pride comes then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." 11:2<br /><br />There are many more I could have written down.<br />I am beginning to read Proverbs start to finish. Like all parts o the Bible, re-reading and rediscovering the words and lessons are true blessings.<br />I need to do a better job at rediscovering the Good Books words.Wade Cortezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01363453485930186645noreply@blogger.com0