Heresy In The House
Controversy time here at Father Time's Place. It has come to my attention that the majority of the recipes for Chili Con Carne contain tomatoes, tomato paste, or some other perverted form of tomatoes. (Ketchup is an example. Yuk!)
Therefore, having been granted unlimited authority by a government agency to make statements of condemnation without obtaining a warrant, I hereby declare any recipe for Chili Con Carne containing tomatoes to be a complete and utter fraud. "But Father Time," you say, "aren't you supposed to be open-minded, employing the guidelines for free and open dialog you endorsed in the Diversity Ethic post sometime ago?" My reply, "OK, so I have some work to do in the area of self-discipline. But hey! We're talking chili here, not religion!"
Be Forewarned. This subject not open to opposing views, (this means you FLY) neither will I entertain any intellectual presentations attempting to question my judgment. Further, any attempts to foist your Grandmother's recipe on me will also be rebuffed. This topic is HUGE with me. Do not mess with the Old Man. Do I make myself clear?
- if you're from SW Texas, we can discuss this because y'all invented this stuff in the first place.
"Authentic" Chili Con Carne
Basic Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil (or bacon grease if you're a cowboy)
1 lb ground beef - coarse ground is best if you can find it.
1 medium onion chopped
4 cloves garlic minced
4 cups of beef stock (option - 2 cups beef stock and 2 cups beer)
2 cans pinto beans
3 tablespoons coarse corn meal (sometimes marketed as polenta)
2 tablespoons cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
2 tablespoons regular store-bought chili powder
1 tablespoon chili ancho - roasted, seeded, and finely ground*
*Go to this link for more info on Ancho Chili Peppers
Preparation
Heat the olive oil in a large sauce pan. Brown the ground beef, onions, and garlic in the olive oil with 1 tablespoon of regular chili powder. When browned, add the beef stock and pinto beans. While the mixture is coming to a boil, mix the corn meal with two or three tablespoons of cold water. Just as the mixture starts to boil, add the corn meal & water mixture. (This is tricky because it works best if you're stirring the chili with one hand and pouring the corn meal in with the other to prevent lumps. Good luck!) Immediately turn the heat down and simmer for 30-60 minutes.
About 10 minutes before serving, add the cumin, oregano, remaining chili powder, and ancho chili. Allow to simmer for the remaining 10 minutes. Caution - simmering longer seems to diminish both the flavor and the "bite."
Serving
Our family likes to top off their chili bowls with some freshly chopped onions and grated cheddar cheese. Serve with warm French bread and cold beer. One permutation Father Time learned in Denver is to serve it over warm macaroni. I know that's sick but it's addictive. ENJOY!
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Monday, January 30, 2006
Northwest Dreaming
Tranquility Central
This picture of Scout Lake near Mt.Jefferson in Central Oregon is one of my favorite places to go backpacking. After untold days of continuous rain, we Northwesterners become afflicted with near-terminal cabin fever. One of the best ways to combat this disease is to plan the next hike by getting out the gear, checking it for torn fabric, applying water sealer to all of the tent seams, and most importantly, surveying the latest fly fishing gear.
See All Those Lakes?
Most of the lakes near the upper right 2000 marker are 15 miles or more from the nearest road. That means thousands of glacier fed trout and only a few hardy souls who hike in to get them. They don't get very big because of the large trout populations and the fierce competition for food, but it doesn't take very many to make a great breakfast or dinner. Sauteed with butter and some wild green onions, they are beyond description.
Don't Forget A Book
After hiking in with a 40 lb pack, one would think rest would be the order of the day. Usually, I make camp, then sit down to relax and do a little reading. Then, as I settle in, a trout will jump out of the water chasing whatever happens to be flying by at the time. I resist for at least 15 seconds, and then cave. The book goes back in the pack, the fly rod comes out, and I attempt to attain enlightenment through communion with nature. I am a spiritual sort afterall.
The Difference Between Good and Bad Furniture
Several years ago, I purchased a small bookcase from a major retailer. As is customary, it came disassembled and required only "a few simple tools to assemble." When I opened the box, I discovered the back was cardboard, the sides and shelves were particle board covered with wood-like vinyl, and what little assembly they did was with staples.
After six months, the shelves sagged, the sides were coming apart, and the vinyl started to bubble. That's when I decided that before I purchased any more furniture, I would know what to look for, and if I got ripped off in the future, it would be my fault. So, after years of research, Father Time proudly shows you what I have discovered.
A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words
That's right! Furniture has to be trained just like a dog. So, if you come home after a tough day at work (or school) and you find your favorite rug soiled, do NOT blame you dog. (This message endorsed by the ASPCA.) Once Father Time has perfected his furniture training spray, I will no longer need to worry about the future of the Social Security Administration.
Friday, January 27, 2006
Father Time's Last Ride
Having previously shown my first car and my first new car, I now present my last car - maybe. These are modified late model Corvettes being built by a company in Detroit. I cannot convey in writing how I would feel if I ever owned one of these. (The Buddhists refer to these feelings as "attachment" and are not considered a positive step toward enlightenment. But I digress.) When I look at these pictures, I'm at a total loss for truly descriptive adjectives.
Now, if I sold my truck, refinanced my home, and started a pyramid scheme, I could come up with the down payment. Then.............. Naaah! In a couple of weeks, I will go to my workshop and weep bitter tears about my materialistic side overcoming my common sense. But in the meantime, I'm going to keep on scheming and dreaming!
Thursday, January 26, 2006
The Diversity Ethic
One of my more adventurous reading projects has been perusing the DT Strain Philosophy blog. Early on, I was drawn to a section of his essay on The Noble Conspectus: Diversity ; specifically his take on creating an eight-part Diversity Ethic. With his permission, I am sharing this work on my blog for two reasons. First, it resonates with me as a way to move forward in my personal life, and second, it represents an alternative way of looking at some of the problems our culture faces today. I apologize in advance if this sounds high-minded on my part. That is not my intention. My goal is to share, not preach.
The Diversity Ethic by DT Strain
The Diversity Ethic is beyond mere tolerance, but it is not capitulation or subjugation. Even if we believe that all those of other beliefs are taking a path of ignorance or doom, we can still maintain that belief, and voice it openly, as this right is included in the Diversity Ethic. The ethic consists of eight parts and is as follows...
1) I will be honest and open about all of my beliefs, defending my rights - even if I believe others or their beliefs to be wrong and even if others could be offended by my beliefs.
2) Without sacrificing my content, I will always phrase my statements with sincere care to be sensitive to the feelings of others - not to belittle or offend for its own sake.
3) When others attempt to be respectful to me in stating their beliefs, I will refuse to take offense, no matter how these views compare to my own. I will look only at the speaker's intent to be offensive, rather than the content of the message.
4) I will be open to working and interacting with those of other beliefs in a cordial manner. I will consider them as equals and treat them humane and friendly. I will never advocate isolationism or segregation.
5) I will not only tolerate, but support the rights of others to voice their beliefs by the same standards and rules I am allowed to voice mine - promoting freedom of speech for all.
6) I will never attempt to use the power of the state to give unequal advantage to my religious institutions and beliefs (or the lack thereof).
7) I will seek out unbiased knowledge about the religious beliefs of others, and not merely learn about them through people of my own belief system. I will try to truly understand what others believe from their own words, even if I do not share those beliefs.
8) I will hold to the Diversity Ethic even when others do not. I will not take another's disregard for these principles as a pass to do the same. My civility and standards, however, will not keep me from advocating my views or defending universal rights.
A Thought
Personally, I see Mr. Strain's Diversity Ethic as a great preface to any discussion on religion vs science. Because so much of what I read seems to focus on the emotional aspects of these dialogs, I think a reasoned discussion, with both sides showing respect for the other's position, would be refreshing to say the least.
The Diversity Ethic by DT Strain
The Diversity Ethic is beyond mere tolerance, but it is not capitulation or subjugation. Even if we believe that all those of other beliefs are taking a path of ignorance or doom, we can still maintain that belief, and voice it openly, as this right is included in the Diversity Ethic. The ethic consists of eight parts and is as follows...
1) I will be honest and open about all of my beliefs, defending my rights - even if I believe others or their beliefs to be wrong and even if others could be offended by my beliefs.
2) Without sacrificing my content, I will always phrase my statements with sincere care to be sensitive to the feelings of others - not to belittle or offend for its own sake.
3) When others attempt to be respectful to me in stating their beliefs, I will refuse to take offense, no matter how these views compare to my own. I will look only at the speaker's intent to be offensive, rather than the content of the message.
4) I will be open to working and interacting with those of other beliefs in a cordial manner. I will consider them as equals and treat them humane and friendly. I will never advocate isolationism or segregation.
5) I will not only tolerate, but support the rights of others to voice their beliefs by the same standards and rules I am allowed to voice mine - promoting freedom of speech for all.
6) I will never attempt to use the power of the state to give unequal advantage to my religious institutions and beliefs (or the lack thereof).
7) I will seek out unbiased knowledge about the religious beliefs of others, and not merely learn about them through people of my own belief system. I will try to truly understand what others believe from their own words, even if I do not share those beliefs.
8) I will hold to the Diversity Ethic even when others do not. I will not take another's disregard for these principles as a pass to do the same. My civility and standards, however, will not keep me from advocating my views or defending universal rights.
A Thought
Personally, I see Mr. Strain's Diversity Ethic as a great preface to any discussion on religion vs science. Because so much of what I read seems to focus on the emotional aspects of these dialogs, I think a reasoned discussion, with both sides showing respect for the other's position, would be refreshing to say the least.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Interesting Quotes
In my spare time (another oxymoron) I try to find things online that challenge me, or make me laugh, or worst of all, make me think. Here are some great examples. If you find solace, enlightenment, or entertainment in them, your thanks will be sufficient. Don't send money. You haven't yet, but in case you thought of it, it's not necessary.
The Quotes
"She is trying the rarest of strategies, telling the truth, and making it sound plausible." [Gregory Maguire, from The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West]
The only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once.
[Albert Einstein]
I do not feel obliged to believe that same God who endowed us with sense, reason, and intellect had intended for us to forgo their use. [Galileo, Galilei]
Any violence which does not spring from a spiritual base will be wavering and uncertain. It lacks the stability which can only rest in a fanatical outlook. [Adolph Hitler, Mein Kampf, p. 171]
And Finally
Good luck and may a breath mint be on your nightstand at just the right time.
The Quotes
"She is trying the rarest of strategies, telling the truth, and making it sound plausible." [Gregory Maguire, from The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West]
The only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once.
[Albert Einstein]
I do not feel obliged to believe that same God who endowed us with sense, reason, and intellect had intended for us to forgo their use. [Galileo, Galilei]
Any violence which does not spring from a spiritual base will be wavering and uncertain. It lacks the stability which can only rest in a fanatical outlook. [Adolph Hitler, Mein Kampf, p. 171]
And Finally
Good luck and may a breath mint be on your nightstand at just the right time.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Father Time Tries Again
I received an e-mail from a friend (?) suggesting that if I felt the book Ethics For The New Millennium by the Dalai Lama was a "tough read," then possibly I had been spending too much time reading Dick & Jane primers.
Fair comment; however, I feel the need to clarify something. (Isn't it amazing? I can read for hours about the virtues of humanism and then KABOOM! Someone questions my intellect and I get all puffy and huffy, and stomp around the room. But I'm better now, so here goes.)
A better way of expressing myself would have been to establish my definition of "tough read" right up front. But I didn't, so let's give it another go.
The Father Time Shuffle
Some books can be unbelievably complex and hard to read. That's one of my definitions of a tough read. My other definition sounds like the complete opposite. Some books can incredibly clear and easy to read, but damn tough to comprehend in one long session. A good analogy would be the challenge of trying to eat a pound of really good chocolate fudge in one setting. Somewhere around the 4 oz. point, it stops tasting as good as it did in the beginning. At the 6 oz. point my body starts to rebel. It tells me that if I eat any more, it will cause me no end of physiological issues, including dizziness, nausea, profuse sweating, and shortness of breath.
Such is the challenge of reading a really great, clearly written treatise on some aspect of philosophy, (minus the physical symptoms unless getting a migraine counts.) Taken in small chunks, it can be digested. For me, to try to read something like that in one or two marathon sessions is not a positive experience.
As always, other opinions are always encouraged, and treated with respect. Now it's time for a snack.
Fair comment; however, I feel the need to clarify something. (Isn't it amazing? I can read for hours about the virtues of humanism and then KABOOM! Someone questions my intellect and I get all puffy and huffy, and stomp around the room. But I'm better now, so here goes.)
A better way of expressing myself would have been to establish my definition of "tough read" right up front. But I didn't, so let's give it another go.
The Father Time Shuffle
Some books can be unbelievably complex and hard to read. That's one of my definitions of a tough read. My other definition sounds like the complete opposite. Some books can incredibly clear and easy to read, but damn tough to comprehend in one long session. A good analogy would be the challenge of trying to eat a pound of really good chocolate fudge in one setting. Somewhere around the 4 oz. point, it stops tasting as good as it did in the beginning. At the 6 oz. point my body starts to rebel. It tells me that if I eat any more, it will cause me no end of physiological issues, including dizziness, nausea, profuse sweating, and shortness of breath.
Such is the challenge of reading a really great, clearly written treatise on some aspect of philosophy, (minus the physical symptoms unless getting a migraine counts.) Taken in small chunks, it can be digested. For me, to try to read something like that in one or two marathon sessions is not a positive experience.
As always, other opinions are always encouraged, and treated with respect. Now it's time for a snack.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Father Time's Best Ride
OK. The previous post introduced my first car. Now let's look at my first NEW car. (I promise this trip through "nostalgia-ville" will end soon.)
This 1964 MGB is almost identical to mine. The black exterior was a prerequisite, as was anything I drove, rode in, or peddled back then. The red leather interior is also the same but my car had wire wheels instead of solid rims. Personally, I still feel it's a design that has transcended the years and would be popular today. I wonder if Ford.................? Naaah.
Father Time Looks Back and Weeps
This is a close copy of my first car. It had 32,000 miles when purchased, was jet black, and had huge white walls that each took one entire steel wool pad to clean.
If Father Time had this car today, he would have an extra garage instead of a workshop. (Maybe there is a silver lining here after all.) Nostalgia can be bittersweet. As an aside, did you know this vehicle will hold four adults plus and bass violin inside the passenger compartment? Now that's nostalgia!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Cat Is In The House
This is my cat Shazam. He prefers to live in a box. It has it's advantages because I always know where he is when I hear him meow. Life is much easier for both of us that way. However, I need to train Shazam to get out of the box when he's hungry instead of having me come to him. Does anyone know of a good cat obedience school?
The Tao On Government
Disclaimer
To demonstrate that I have a small measure of self-discipline, the following excerpt from the Tao Te Ching is presented without any commentary. Believe me, I may burst, but that's just the way it is here at the Place.
Chapter 58 - When the Government Is Unobtrusive
When the government is unobtrusive,
the people are pure.
When the government is invasive,
the people are wanting.
Calamity is what fortune depends upon;
fortune is what calamity subdues.
Who knows how it will all end?
Is there no right and wrong?
The orthodox also becomes unorthodox,
and the good also becomes ill;
people's confusion is indeed long-standing.
Therefore, practioners of the Way are
upright without causing injury,
honest without hurting,
direct but not tactless,
illumined but not flashy.
Raaar!
To demonstrate that I have a small measure of self-discipline, the following excerpt from the Tao Te Ching is presented without any commentary. Believe me, I may burst, but that's just the way it is here at the Place.
Chapter 58 - When the Government Is Unobtrusive
When the government is unobtrusive,
the people are pure.
When the government is invasive,
the people are wanting.
Calamity is what fortune depends upon;
fortune is what calamity subdues.
Who knows how it will all end?
Is there no right and wrong?
The orthodox also becomes unorthodox,
and the good also becomes ill;
people's confusion is indeed long-standing.
Therefore, practioners of the Way are
upright without causing injury,
honest without hurting,
direct but not tactless,
illumined but not flashy.
Raaar!
Monday, January 16, 2006
Strange Day
Today has really been weird. Is this a Holiday? Yes. Is this a work day? Depends on who you are. Even the weather doesn't seem to able to make up it's mind. My inclination is to read, but I'm restless. The workshop beckons me to come on in and hang out. My friends' blogs reflect the same unsettled feeling. The Fly has writer's block. Even my recipe source is featuring Weight Watchers' macaroni and cheese. Is that an oxymoron or what?
Tomorrow will be a better day.
Good luck and may your nightstand be dusted, cleaned, and polished, totally ready for a bunch of stuff later this week.
Tomorrow will be a better day.
Good luck and may your nightstand be dusted, cleaned, and polished, totally ready for a bunch of stuff later this week.
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Ode To The Fly
Having Fun With Philosophy
I have read at least five different translations of Tao Te Ching in past weeks. Clearly, translating from early Chinese to English is not an easy task. Along the way, however, I encountered a rhyming version by James Clatfelter that was an absolute joy to read. Obviously, some of the subleties of the straight-forward classical interpretations become lost if your goal is to suck up every last morsel of detail. That said, I decided to combine an element of Thomas Cleary's interpretation (using "warrior" in place of "sage") with Clatfelter's rhyming version and produced - with apologies to all - my interpretion of Chapter 15 of the Tao Te Ching:
Father Time's Version
The Warriors Of Old
Those warriors of old who knew the way
To origin and source within
Have seen the place where wholeness
And infinity begin
Alert as one on a frozen stream
Or one who watches for the foe
Deferential as a guest
And generous as melting snow
Plain as an uncarved block of wood
Expansive as a vale
Transparent just like water
Whose clarity will never fail
Can you keep yourself so still
That muddy water clears?
And wait until right action
Spontaneously appears?
Addendum
Once again, there is no intention of offend classic Taoists. It's just Father Time working on his portrait.
I have read at least five different translations of Tao Te Ching in past weeks. Clearly, translating from early Chinese to English is not an easy task. Along the way, however, I encountered a rhyming version by James Clatfelter that was an absolute joy to read. Obviously, some of the subleties of the straight-forward classical interpretations become lost if your goal is to suck up every last morsel of detail. That said, I decided to combine an element of Thomas Cleary's interpretation (using "warrior" in place of "sage") with Clatfelter's rhyming version and produced - with apologies to all - my interpretion of Chapter 15 of the Tao Te Ching:
Father Time's Version
The Warriors Of Old
Those warriors of old who knew the way
To origin and source within
Have seen the place where wholeness
And infinity begin
Alert as one on a frozen stream
Or one who watches for the foe
Deferential as a guest
And generous as melting snow
Plain as an uncarved block of wood
Expansive as a vale
Transparent just like water
Whose clarity will never fail
Can you keep yourself so still
That muddy water clears?
And wait until right action
Spontaneously appears?
Addendum
Once again, there is no intention of offend classic Taoists. It's just Father Time working on his portrait.
Friday, January 13, 2006
Nightstand vs. Step Stool
There seems to be some confusion regarding my past practice of always concluding my posts with some kind of "nightstand wisdom" and the fact that I am building a Shaker step stool. To clarify the situation, more or less, here are pictures of the two. You will note that the step stool, despite the pitiful photography, is damn fine. On the other hand, even with a glamor photographer pulling out all the stops, the nightstand is a loser.
My point is this - the next project in Father Time's workshop will be a damn fine nightstand to replace the TV tray I am using now. What could be better than that? Now it's time to start dinner.
Good luck and may a box of Better Cheddars be on your nightstand for a midnight snack.
The First Image
So my friends, when you sign your first long-term employment contract, or you receive a signing bonus with your favorite NFL team, this is what you need in the hanger next to your home at the airfield. They are extremely handy for a short trip to the next state for a quick bite to eat, but can be a little spendy when it comes to buying gasoline. However, since you are taking the shortcut, (as the crow flies) you will probably come out ahead in the long run.
Personally, I will remove the tiger teeth from mine, since it might scare pets if I strafe (excuse me!) pass over your home enroute to fine dining. Wouldn't want to scare Jack!
Back to the workshop. The Shaker step stool beckons!
Thursday, January 12, 2006
Change In Direction
When I went to bed last night, I was disgusted with the direction the blog had taken. Rather than deleting it and starting over, I'm making a mid-stream correction. Having accomplished that, I feel better and am heading for my workshop to finish a Shaker step stool for my wife's birthday. It's something she's wanted as a place to display her beloved plants. Oh yes, being Father Time is a tough chore. :-)
What? No Nightstand?
Maybe later but trying to fit all of that stuff on a 24" x 24" table top was getting to be stressful. Maybe it's time to clear all of it off and start over. We'll see.
What? No Nightstand?
Maybe later but trying to fit all of that stuff on a 24" x 24" table top was getting to be stressful. Maybe it's time to clear all of it off and start over. We'll see.
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Books, Pictures, and Rapture
My Current Pile of Books
Thanks to the local library, the following books are sitting on my desk today:
Ethics For The New Millennium by The Dali Lama (actually extended for two weeks because it's tough going,) Hamlet edited by Harold Jenkins (The Arden Shakespeare Series), The Essential Tao translated by Thomas Cleary, and Designing The Good Home by H.N. Jacobson, B.C. Jackson, and O.G. Bowman.
Pictures
This is a masterpiece of engineering for the '40's. Maybe I'm prejudiced because the leader of the Lockheed design team came from my home town. At any rate, I think it is an American classic in aeronautical design.
Lockheed P-38 Lightning Yes Fly, I know - the P-51 Mustang. You Korean War youngsters think it's all about design, maneuverability, fire power, and speed. No Fly, it's about having two engines no matter what the deficiencies are.
Rapture
And my friends, it's about spending endless days with thick gray clouds, non-stop rain, and books. This is Nirvana!
Good luck and may a flashlight be on your nightstand when the power goes out.
Thanks to the local library, the following books are sitting on my desk today:
Ethics For The New Millennium by The Dali Lama (actually extended for two weeks because it's tough going,) Hamlet edited by Harold Jenkins (The Arden Shakespeare Series), The Essential Tao translated by Thomas Cleary, and Designing The Good Home by H.N. Jacobson, B.C. Jackson, and O.G. Bowman.
Pictures
This is a masterpiece of engineering for the '40's. Maybe I'm prejudiced because the leader of the Lockheed design team came from my home town. At any rate, I think it is an American classic in aeronautical design.
Lockheed P-38 Lightning Yes Fly, I know - the P-51 Mustang. You Korean War youngsters think it's all about design, maneuverability, fire power, and speed. No Fly, it's about having two engines no matter what the deficiencies are.
Rapture
And my friends, it's about spending endless days with thick gray clouds, non-stop rain, and books. This is Nirvana!
Good luck and may a flashlight be on your nightstand when the power goes out.
Sister From The South
This is about siblings, not Catholic nuns. My only sibling is Sister. She and I are quite close due to the many wars we had as children. Initially, the wars were over toys, but later sunk to the lowest levels of psychological warfare. So, when do two combatants become allies? When their overbearing Mother tries to assert control over her domain. But that is a whole separate story. (See Post 349 if I make it that far.)
Sister now lives in a southern state and is happily married to a really cool guy who loves NASCAR. We communicate mostly by e-mail, and I have it on good authority that she is a lurker on this blog. Therefore, in a desperate attempt to increase "bloggership," I encourage her to comment, especially in those areas where I have grossly overstated my intellectual capacity. (See Post 9 for that story.)
Good luck and may a picture of someone you love be on your nightstand tonight.
Sister now lives in a southern state and is happily married to a really cool guy who loves NASCAR. We communicate mostly by e-mail, and I have it on good authority that she is a lurker on this blog. Therefore, in a desperate attempt to increase "bloggership," I encourage her to comment, especially in those areas where I have grossly overstated my intellectual capacity. (See Post 9 for that story.)
Good luck and may a picture of someone you love be on your nightstand tonight.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
A Little Bit About Father Time
Let's Start Slowly
Since this blog is in it's infancy, I felt it would be a good to share a little of my background.
My rationale is twofold:
1) to make sure no one thinks I have some sort of unique credentials that make me an expert in anything, and
2) making sure I can express who I am.
The first part should be obvious; just read the stuff I write and you will quickly see I'm incapable of complex thought. (I break things down into simple chunks when the going gets intellectual.)
The second part, albeit true, may sound a little perplexing at first. Let me attempt to explain:
One of my new passions is the study of spirituality, and is currently focused on Eastern Asian and Indian philosophies. At the core of many of these philosophies lies the concept of getting past "the self" in order to find "reality." The better known of these schools, Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, share this concept and differ only in how to reach "reality." Meditation is the most common methodology and is on my "to do" list. See what I mean about oversimplification? So, if I follow their thinking, I don't know who I am but I have the means available to find out.
Is This Going To Be Boring?
NO! When I started this blog, my formula was to start off in a light-hearted manner, but over time, introduce topics that were moderately serious. I may follow this formula for a while but reserve the right to change it as quickly as a weasel cornering in a sewer pipe.
So, Get On With It Old Man!
Father Time studied mechanical engineering and worked for an American automobile manufacturer for 15 years, but did a mid-life u-turn and became a banker. Making that change required going back to school to pick up the skills needed in the financial world. Neglected along the way, were the areas that are now my passions - backpacking, fly fishing, woodworking, architecture, the history of WWII, cooking, and the study of philosophy. Finally, if I must be described politically, I'm a slightly left-leaning centrist who is fiscally conservative. If I must be categorized spiritually, use the word "humanist."
Now it's time for bed.
Good luck and may your nightstand be piled with really cool books that must be read!
Since this blog is in it's infancy, I felt it would be a good to share a little of my background.
My rationale is twofold:
1) to make sure no one thinks I have some sort of unique credentials that make me an expert in anything, and
2) making sure I can express who I am.
The first part should be obvious; just read the stuff I write and you will quickly see I'm incapable of complex thought. (I break things down into simple chunks when the going gets intellectual.)
The second part, albeit true, may sound a little perplexing at first. Let me attempt to explain:
One of my new passions is the study of spirituality, and is currently focused on Eastern Asian and Indian philosophies. At the core of many of these philosophies lies the concept of getting past "the self" in order to find "reality." The better known of these schools, Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, share this concept and differ only in how to reach "reality." Meditation is the most common methodology and is on my "to do" list. See what I mean about oversimplification? So, if I follow their thinking, I don't know who I am but I have the means available to find out.
Is This Going To Be Boring?
NO! When I started this blog, my formula was to start off in a light-hearted manner, but over time, introduce topics that were moderately serious. I may follow this formula for a while but reserve the right to change it as quickly as a weasel cornering in a sewer pipe.
So, Get On With It Old Man!
Father Time studied mechanical engineering and worked for an American automobile manufacturer for 15 years, but did a mid-life u-turn and became a banker. Making that change required going back to school to pick up the skills needed in the financial world. Neglected along the way, were the areas that are now my passions - backpacking, fly fishing, woodworking, architecture, the history of WWII, cooking, and the study of philosophy. Finally, if I must be described politically, I'm a slightly left-leaning centrist who is fiscally conservative. If I must be categorized spiritually, use the word "humanist."
Now it's time for bed.
Good luck and may your nightstand be piled with really cool books that must be read!
Friday, January 06, 2006
Chocolate Fudge Resolution Breaker
Get Ready To Indulge
Why a recipe for fudge you might ask?
Beginning of Rant
Because everyone in this (substitute adjective of your choice here - personally, I suggest "frickin" but you may offended, so go with what your value system deems appropriate) household is on Weight Watchers except me. That means, as a retired person, I roam the house all day like a phantom looking for calories to sustain me lest I start looking Gandhi. Having been the victim of my own New Year's Resolutions over the years, I know this situation will soon pass, usually about the time of the Super Bowl. In fact, it's usually the exact day of the Super Bowl. But I digress.
Warning! This recipe makes a ton. You may want to cut it in half the first time.
The Recipe
Ready, set, go:
Basic Stuff
Utensils needed: Heatproof bowl; heavy-bottomed saucepan; baking sheet or platter, lightly buttered; wooden spoon.
Boiling time: 6 minutes.
Storage: Keep individually wrapped candies in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week; refrigerated, up to 3 weeks. Personally, they rarely last that long so forget the wrapping part and get to eating!
Line This Stuff Up On Your Work Area
12 oz bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
2 cups toasted walnut, pecan, macadamia, or other nuts, chopped, optional
10 tbsps unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract (If you like REALLY DARK FUDGE, substitute a thsp of instant coffee for the vanilla.)
22 large marshmallows - (eat two right now and put 20 into your fudge!)
4 cups sugar
2 5-oz cans evaporated milk
Doing It
Combine the chocolate pieces, nuts (if using), butter, and vanilla in a large heatproof bowl. Set aside.
Place the marshmallows, sugar, and evaporated milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stirring constantly, bring to a boil. Continuing to stir, boil for exactly 6 minutes.
Remove from the heat and immediately pour the marshmallow mixture into the chocolate mixture; beat constantly until creamy. Quickly pour into the prepared pan or platter, pushing slightly with the back of a wooden spoon to spread the fudge evenly.
Cool for at least 1 hour before cutting into pieces. Serve at room temperature.
Quantity: Approximately 8 dozen pieces
The Good Part
Notice this doesn't require a candy thermometer or any silly tests like putting a drop of your valuable fudge into water to see if it forms a soft ball. Unbelievable!
Good luck and may two pieces of homemade fudge be on your nightstand tonight.
Why a recipe for fudge you might ask?
Beginning of Rant
Because everyone in this (substitute adjective of your choice here - personally, I suggest "frickin" but you may offended, so go with what your value system deems appropriate) household is on Weight Watchers except me. That means, as a retired person, I roam the house all day like a phantom looking for calories to sustain me lest I start looking Gandhi. Having been the victim of my own New Year's Resolutions over the years, I know this situation will soon pass, usually about the time of the Super Bowl. In fact, it's usually the exact day of the Super Bowl. But I digress.
Warning! This recipe makes a ton. You may want to cut it in half the first time.
The Recipe
Ready, set, go:
Basic Stuff
Utensils needed: Heatproof bowl; heavy-bottomed saucepan; baking sheet or platter, lightly buttered; wooden spoon.
Boiling time: 6 minutes.
Storage: Keep individually wrapped candies in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week; refrigerated, up to 3 weeks. Personally, they rarely last that long so forget the wrapping part and get to eating!
Line This Stuff Up On Your Work Area
12 oz bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
2 cups toasted walnut, pecan, macadamia, or other nuts, chopped, optional
10 tbsps unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract (If you like REALLY DARK FUDGE, substitute a thsp of instant coffee for the vanilla.)
22 large marshmallows - (eat two right now and put 20 into your fudge!)
4 cups sugar
2 5-oz cans evaporated milk
Doing It
Combine the chocolate pieces, nuts (if using), butter, and vanilla in a large heatproof bowl. Set aside.
Place the marshmallows, sugar, and evaporated milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stirring constantly, bring to a boil. Continuing to stir, boil for exactly 6 minutes.
Remove from the heat and immediately pour the marshmallow mixture into the chocolate mixture; beat constantly until creamy. Quickly pour into the prepared pan or platter, pushing slightly with the back of a wooden spoon to spread the fudge evenly.
Cool for at least 1 hour before cutting into pieces. Serve at room temperature.
Quantity: Approximately 8 dozen pieces
The Good Part
Notice this doesn't require a candy thermometer or any silly tests like putting a drop of your valuable fudge into water to see if it forms a soft ball. Unbelievable!
Good luck and may two pieces of homemade fudge be on your nightstand tonight.
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Getting At The Truth
The Quote
The hardest part about gaining any new idea is sweeping out the false idea occupying that niche. As long as that niche is occupied, evidence and proof and logical demonstration get nowhere. But once the niche is emptied of the wrong idea that has been filling it - once you can honestly say, I don't know, then it becomes possible to get at the truth.
The Author
Robert A. Heinlein
The Thought For Today
For me, Heinlein's quote beautifully describes the main reason American politicians struggle with their public image. Anyone care to chime in? If not, tomorrow's post will dwell making great fudge.
Good Luck and may a rose from a loved one be on your nightstand in the morning.
The hardest part about gaining any new idea is sweeping out the false idea occupying that niche. As long as that niche is occupied, evidence and proof and logical demonstration get nowhere. But once the niche is emptied of the wrong idea that has been filling it - once you can honestly say, I don't know, then it becomes possible to get at the truth.
The Author
Robert A. Heinlein
The Thought For Today
For me, Heinlein's quote beautifully describes the main reason American politicians struggle with their public image. Anyone care to chime in? If not, tomorrow's post will dwell making great fudge.
Good Luck and may a rose from a loved one be on your nightstand in the morning.
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
A Million Little Pieces
Finished reading "A Million Little Pieces" by James Frey. It's the story of the author's trip through drug rehab after a lifetime of hard core drug abuse. Unsettling is the best way to describe his journey. My personal interest was triggered when he learned that the 12-Step Program was based on Christian principles and he was a confirmed atheist. Suffice it to say he recovered, and has remained clean by doing it "his way" despite the misgivings of the clinic's professional staff.
Next Step In The Progression Of Blog Building
Today's research, (now that I can "link"), is downloading photos. This should be fun and entertaining for all concerned. Stay tuned.
Good luck and may the new alarm clock on your night stand wake you to the soothing sounds of a rippling stream.
Next Step In The Progression Of Blog Building
Today's research, (now that I can "link"), is downloading photos. This should be fun and entertaining for all concerned. Stay tuned.
Good luck and may the new alarm clock on your night stand wake you to the soothing sounds of a rippling stream.
Football Hangover
This is really just a placeholder for now. After watching the Penn State - Florida State game last night for 4+ hours, my brain is cooked. Go Penn State (whose ONLY loss was to Michigan)! :-) Real post to follow later today.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
The Advent Of Fly Specks
After researching blogs ad infinitum (ad nauseam?), Father Time is going to kick things off with a little fun - at least in my book it's fun. A post or two ago, I said that a regular feature would be a comment or two about the happenings on The Fly's blog, aptly titled Thus Saith The Fly. To my dismay, things have been slow over there for the past few days, so let's see if The Fly is really paying attention to his elders.
Fly Specks
This quote from Carl Sagen is my contribution to stirring up Fly Specks while simultaneously opening the door to my latest love-hate room - spirituality.
The idea that God is an oversized white male with a flowing beard who sits in the sky and tallies the fall of every sparrow is ludicrous. But if by God one means the set of physical laws that govern the universe, then clearly there is such a God. This God is emotionally unsatisfying... it does not make much sense to pray to the law of gravity.
That should do it. Press on!
What's Next?
Father Time will diligently study his HTML notes and attempt to clean this place up. Plus, we will add links, rants, and pictures, especially one of a P-38 Lightening wearing cool clothes. I know it's not a P-51 Mustang, but it has two engines and keeps flying when one is knocked out. Shazam!
In addition, at the suggestion of The Fly, my blog address may change to make it easier to find this place, especially for my three friends. (In the future, violins will be heard playing a Bach fugue at this point.)
Good Luck and may cool water be on your nightstand when you have your next noctunal coughing fit.
Fly Specks
This quote from Carl Sagen is my contribution to stirring up Fly Specks while simultaneously opening the door to my latest love-hate room - spirituality.
The idea that God is an oversized white male with a flowing beard who sits in the sky and tallies the fall of every sparrow is ludicrous. But if by God one means the set of physical laws that govern the universe, then clearly there is such a God. This God is emotionally unsatisfying... it does not make much sense to pray to the law of gravity.
That should do it. Press on!
What's Next?
Father Time will diligently study his HTML notes and attempt to clean this place up. Plus, we will add links, rants, and pictures, especially one of a P-38 Lightening wearing cool clothes. I know it's not a P-51 Mustang, but it has two engines and keeps flying when one is knocked out. Shazam!
In addition, at the suggestion of The Fly, my blog address may change to make it easier to find this place, especially for my three friends. (In the future, violins will be heard playing a Bach fugue at this point.)
Good Luck and may cool water be on your nightstand when you have your next noctunal coughing fit.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Change Is Good For The Soul
In retrospect, my plan to offer an all-new, totally refreshing, and exciting blog was ill conceived. The reason? No matter what I do or say, I will always be the second or third person to come to the party, and most likely driving a Yugo. So, this new approach offers me more flexibility, and should be definitely more fun. I can hardly wait.
Good luck and may a really good book be on your nightstand when you have insomnia.
Good luck and may a really good book be on your nightstand when you have insomnia.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)