Welcome to the Friday Music Blog on Chief 187 Chatter. It is widely known that music is a passion of mine. Having a forum to post topics, leave my subjective choices, and read all of yours is a Simple Joy! I have been doing Friday Music Blogs for years and I never tire of them. Even posting three a week keeps me energized and enthused for the numerous responses I get to pour over. The Friday Music Blog is a mainstay and I’m thrilled to have you all here to play along with me!
Today’s focus is songs with the word “Sunday” in the title. List any and all songs with “Sunday” in the title and be sure to include the artist. If it isn’t immediately evident, the next six weeks will be dedicated to days of the week entries. Do not jump the gun and post them all now. Each Friday we will look at a different day of the week. Today is ONLY Sunday.
I am once again overwhelmed by the outpouring of love, respect, and loyalty to this site and to Simple Joys, the crown jewel that is the weekly line up. The pageviews flew over 19000 this week, the memberships who follow increased to 65, and the numbers continue to skyrocket! I am moved by your support and hope to continue to give you a quality product which to read, interact, and enjoy. Thank you to each and every one of you! Please join me to check on the Friday Music Blog as the entries continue to come throughout the weekend. I invite you to return on Monday for another week of all new and original blogs here at Chief 187 Chatter.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Tantalizing Thursday
Welcome to Tantalizing Thursday on Chief 187 Chatter. This feature is reserved for recipes of all nature, from soup to nuts, which are relatively easy to prepare, do not require a lot of ingredients, and taste scrumptious. Sweets are a favorite in my household, especially with me, so today’s focus will be a luscious dessert. If you are anything like me then chocolate is the dessert of choice. I hope you enjoy today’s offering.
Chocolate Mudslide Frozen Pie
Recipe by Nestle’ Toll House
Ingredients:
1 prepared 9-inch (6 ounces) chocolate crumb crust
1 cup (6 ounces) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
1 teaspoon NESCAFÉ TASTER'S CHOICE House Blend 100% Pure Instant Coffee Granules
1 teaspoon hot water
3/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Baking Cocoa
2 tablespoons NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Morsels
Directions:
MELT 1-cup morsels in small, heavy-duty saucepan over lowest possible heat. When morsels begin to melt, remove from heat; stir. Return to heat for a few seconds at a time, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat; cool for 10 minutes.
COMBINE coffee granules and water in medium bowl. Add sour cream, granulated sugar and vanilla extract; stir until sugar is dissolved. Stir in melted chocolate until smooth. Spread into crust; refrigerate.
BEAT cream, powdered sugar and cocoa in small mixer bowl until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe over chocolate layer. Sprinkle with mini morsels. Freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.
This offering is sinfully good, a bit time-consuming, but oh-so worth it! If it’s too darn difficult, takes too long, or is just not worth the commitment, you can always buy the crust, some prepared chocolate pudding, some Cool Whip, and some chocolate to shave and make an easier yet still fantastic version of a chocolate pie! Whichever way you go, remember to embrace the process, share the pie with loved ones, and imprint the Simple Joys created when taking the time to prepare a fantastical dessert such as this.
Chocolate Mudslide Frozen Pie
Recipe by Nestle’ Toll House
Ingredients:
1 prepared 9-inch (6 ounces) chocolate crumb crust
1 cup (6 ounces) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
1 teaspoon NESCAFÉ TASTER'S CHOICE House Blend 100% Pure Instant Coffee Granules
1 teaspoon hot water
3/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Baking Cocoa
2 tablespoons NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Morsels
Directions:
MELT 1-cup morsels in small, heavy-duty saucepan over lowest possible heat. When morsels begin to melt, remove from heat; stir. Return to heat for a few seconds at a time, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat; cool for 10 minutes.
COMBINE coffee granules and water in medium bowl. Add sour cream, granulated sugar and vanilla extract; stir until sugar is dissolved. Stir in melted chocolate until smooth. Spread into crust; refrigerate.
BEAT cream, powdered sugar and cocoa in small mixer bowl until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe over chocolate layer. Sprinkle with mini morsels. Freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.
This offering is sinfully good, a bit time-consuming, but oh-so worth it! If it’s too darn difficult, takes too long, or is just not worth the commitment, you can always buy the crust, some prepared chocolate pudding, some Cool Whip, and some chocolate to shave and make an easier yet still fantastic version of a chocolate pie! Whichever way you go, remember to embrace the process, share the pie with loved ones, and imprint the Simple Joys created when taking the time to prepare a fantastical dessert such as this.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Celebrity Crushes
Indulging in celebrity crushes is not only fun but also healthy. It allows you to explore your attractions based on the most superficial of characteristics, looks. Celebrity crushes help define your type, grow in your sexual criteria, and create an incredible fantasy life. As long as it is kept in relative check, celebrity crushes are a great rite of passage that need not end when your Teen Beat subscription does.
Who was your celebrity crush growing up and who is it now? Were you a fan of a seventies pop star or actor or was the eighties your decade with the Brat Pack and hair bands? Were you a nineties kid crushing on flannel-wearing Grungers or 90210 superstars? Have your tastes matured or do you still think Rob Lowe is all that? Was Kristy McNichol hot then and now it’s Brittany Spears? Confide whom your celebrity crushes were, who they are now, and what your crushes meant/mean to you.
There isn’t much more fun than reminiscing about celebrity crushes. Thinking back to your youth, fondly remembering the first hints of attraction, all-consuming thoughts, and a desire to be Mrs. “Superstar” or Mr. “Yes that Hottie is my Wife”.
This piece is most fun when people actually leave their response, so please take a moment to reveal your celebrity crush of old and, if they exist, of modern day! It’s summer, it’s hot, work is not nearly as entertaining as this, so answer!
Join me tomorrow for Tantalizing Thursday on Chief 187 Chatter when I supply another scrumptious recipe to try!
Who was your celebrity crush growing up and who is it now? Were you a fan of a seventies pop star or actor or was the eighties your decade with the Brat Pack and hair bands? Were you a nineties kid crushing on flannel-wearing Grungers or 90210 superstars? Have your tastes matured or do you still think Rob Lowe is all that? Was Kristy McNichol hot then and now it’s Brittany Spears? Confide whom your celebrity crushes were, who they are now, and what your crushes meant/mean to you.
There isn’t much more fun than reminiscing about celebrity crushes. Thinking back to your youth, fondly remembering the first hints of attraction, all-consuming thoughts, and a desire to be Mrs. “Superstar” or Mr. “Yes that Hottie is my Wife”.
This piece is most fun when people actually leave their response, so please take a moment to reveal your celebrity crush of old and, if they exist, of modern day! It’s summer, it’s hot, work is not nearly as entertaining as this, so answer!
Join me tomorrow for Tantalizing Thursday on Chief 187 Chatter when I supply another scrumptious recipe to try!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Simple Joys
Gathering research for Simple Joys is a Simple Joy in itself! Every day I get to keep my receptors on seeking out the fun, the sweet, the tender, and the special that occurs. I write them down, file them in memory, and store them up for when I get to write this, my favorite post of the week. My life is truly blessed to include so many Simple Joys. As I’ve written many times, once I opened my eyes and heart to the Simple Joys around, it became easier to identify and embrace them. Now they surround me and I am rich with them! I urge you to tune in to the Simple Joys that are all around you. Now, without further ado, is this week’s Simple Joys.
Safety Town Graduation. My four-year-old son took part in a program offered by our public school district called Safety Town. The gymnasium at the school that contains his Kindergarten transformed into a miniature town complete with wooden buildings, construction paper roads, and traffic signs. The children brought helmets to school and got to ride the streets of Safety Town on tricycles. They were taught about the jobs of the local police and fire departments, saw an ambulance; learned about stranger danger, and many other important safety topics. They also rode a school bus, visited the school library, and learned the geography of their new school. It is a lovely program that culminated in a cute “graduation” ceremony and a reception with food that followed. Seeing my son on stage, singing the songs about safety he learned enthusiastically, and sitting among his classmates brought an overwhelming feeling of how quickly he is growing. The day of his graduation was hot as our town was in the grips of an oppressive heat wave. We all dressed up for the occasion, but with no air conditioning we were sweating by 9:30am in the gym. But, to my surprise and pleasure, my three children were all well behaved, delighted in the table filled with sugary delights including “Mommy’s Now-Famous Dark Chocolate Brownies”, and made the whole rite of passage an utter Simple Joy.
Water Pistols. Once released from the graduation for Safety Town, the children and I drove home, stripped our fancy clothes, and threw on our bathing suits that live in the kitchen during the summer. We all converged in the kiddie pool that I’ve written about previously. The air was thick with humidity, the sun beating down, relentless in its intensity, was unyielding. The pool, recently filled with water from our well, cold from the deep earth from which it sprang, was refreshing, clear, and inviting. We tried to sit in the pool, but it was crowded and too cold! So, we all picked up a water pistol, filled them from the pool, and began the most fun water gun fight I’d ever been a part! We shot, screamed from the coldness, and laughed until our sides hurt. Playing like a child, laughing at the heat wave instead of complaining and hiding from it, and enjoying the pureness of fun from playing with my children delivered the most freeing Simple Joy.
Date Night. My husband and I used to try and date one another once a month. We’d get a sitter, plan a fun night, and enjoy each other’s company sans children. Recently, due to our daughter’s young age and our lack of funds due to the sluggish economy, we’d gotten away from date nights. With a renewed determination, several sitters we want to try, and a desire to speak to one another without three other little people vying for our attention, we escaped for a date night. The night wound up being a comedy of errors, but we still had a fantastic time just being “us”. Coming home and being Mom and Dad is still the most rewarding feeling, but going on a date night was a Simple Joy we plan to revisit much more often!
Rain. The heat wave had a tight hold on the area in which I live. Temperatures soared into the upper nineties and broke 100 degrees several times. I’m lucky to be able to escape to my parents’ lake house and swim. On the last day of the heat wave my entire family were all in the water when the skies opened up and rain fell, hard. Darkened skies led to a steady, relentless and cool rain falling. With no lightning or thunder we were comfortable waiting the storm out in the water. Being caught in a rainstorm, while immersed in the lake, was an unexpected Simple Joy.
Bridge. I love the game of Bridge. Yes, Bridge. The game that most know because a grandmother played or it was mentioned in an old book or television show but no one really plays themselves; I play. I’ve been playing since I was fourteen and I’m good at it. I’m not great because not many people I know play and, having young children, I don’t get a lot of opportunity to play, but I do well. My husband plays, too. We love it. Mostly we play with my parents now. We wait for my children to go to bed or, as in the most recent case; we put on a video so we could play. If you play or know someone who does, contact me! I’d love to resurrect this game. Any time I get to play Bridge is a Simple Joy.
Simple Joys are abundant in my life, but I believe they are because I open myself up to their existence. My wish for all of you is the peace to quietly observe the Simple Joys in your life. They exist. And once you do, notice how abundant yours are, too!
Please join me tomorrow, as I wax poetic about another original topic tomorrow on Chief 187 Chatter.
Safety Town Graduation. My four-year-old son took part in a program offered by our public school district called Safety Town. The gymnasium at the school that contains his Kindergarten transformed into a miniature town complete with wooden buildings, construction paper roads, and traffic signs. The children brought helmets to school and got to ride the streets of Safety Town on tricycles. They were taught about the jobs of the local police and fire departments, saw an ambulance; learned about stranger danger, and many other important safety topics. They also rode a school bus, visited the school library, and learned the geography of their new school. It is a lovely program that culminated in a cute “graduation” ceremony and a reception with food that followed. Seeing my son on stage, singing the songs about safety he learned enthusiastically, and sitting among his classmates brought an overwhelming feeling of how quickly he is growing. The day of his graduation was hot as our town was in the grips of an oppressive heat wave. We all dressed up for the occasion, but with no air conditioning we were sweating by 9:30am in the gym. But, to my surprise and pleasure, my three children were all well behaved, delighted in the table filled with sugary delights including “Mommy’s Now-Famous Dark Chocolate Brownies”, and made the whole rite of passage an utter Simple Joy.
Water Pistols. Once released from the graduation for Safety Town, the children and I drove home, stripped our fancy clothes, and threw on our bathing suits that live in the kitchen during the summer. We all converged in the kiddie pool that I’ve written about previously. The air was thick with humidity, the sun beating down, relentless in its intensity, was unyielding. The pool, recently filled with water from our well, cold from the deep earth from which it sprang, was refreshing, clear, and inviting. We tried to sit in the pool, but it was crowded and too cold! So, we all picked up a water pistol, filled them from the pool, and began the most fun water gun fight I’d ever been a part! We shot, screamed from the coldness, and laughed until our sides hurt. Playing like a child, laughing at the heat wave instead of complaining and hiding from it, and enjoying the pureness of fun from playing with my children delivered the most freeing Simple Joy.
Date Night. My husband and I used to try and date one another once a month. We’d get a sitter, plan a fun night, and enjoy each other’s company sans children. Recently, due to our daughter’s young age and our lack of funds due to the sluggish economy, we’d gotten away from date nights. With a renewed determination, several sitters we want to try, and a desire to speak to one another without three other little people vying for our attention, we escaped for a date night. The night wound up being a comedy of errors, but we still had a fantastic time just being “us”. Coming home and being Mom and Dad is still the most rewarding feeling, but going on a date night was a Simple Joy we plan to revisit much more often!
Rain. The heat wave had a tight hold on the area in which I live. Temperatures soared into the upper nineties and broke 100 degrees several times. I’m lucky to be able to escape to my parents’ lake house and swim. On the last day of the heat wave my entire family were all in the water when the skies opened up and rain fell, hard. Darkened skies led to a steady, relentless and cool rain falling. With no lightning or thunder we were comfortable waiting the storm out in the water. Being caught in a rainstorm, while immersed in the lake, was an unexpected Simple Joy.
Bridge. I love the game of Bridge. Yes, Bridge. The game that most know because a grandmother played or it was mentioned in an old book or television show but no one really plays themselves; I play. I’ve been playing since I was fourteen and I’m good at it. I’m not great because not many people I know play and, having young children, I don’t get a lot of opportunity to play, but I do well. My husband plays, too. We love it. Mostly we play with my parents now. We wait for my children to go to bed or, as in the most recent case; we put on a video so we could play. If you play or know someone who does, contact me! I’d love to resurrect this game. Any time I get to play Bridge is a Simple Joy.
Simple Joys are abundant in my life, but I believe they are because I open myself up to their existence. My wish for all of you is the peace to quietly observe the Simple Joys in your life. They exist. And once you do, notice how abundant yours are, too!
Please join me tomorrow, as I wax poetic about another original topic tomorrow on Chief 187 Chatter.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Monday Movie Blog
Welcome to the Monday Movie Blog on Chief 187 Chatter. It’s been a very hot week in my part of the world and escaping to the movie theater is very enticing. With three children of varying ages it isn’t always convenient to run to the local theater to watch the latest flick without hiring a sitter. The Monday Movie Blog has consistently gathered your selections for movies of all different genres as a resource to utilize when looking for a good film to watch. As the mercury continued to rise I zoomed to my archived Monday Movie Blogs to find a winner. Now it’s time to add to the queue!
Today’s focus is movies that are based on comic book characters. List any and all movies that are based on comic book characters from the past or present. Remember to list the actors in the film and include a small synopsis or review.
To access previous Monday Movie Blogs, simply type “Monday Movie Blog” in the Search feature in the upper left hand corner of this page. Please leave your movie selections based on comic book characters below. I invite you to join me tomorrow for the most uplifting post of the week, Simple Joys.
Today’s focus is movies that are based on comic book characters. List any and all movies that are based on comic book characters from the past or present. Remember to list the actors in the film and include a small synopsis or review.
To access previous Monday Movie Blogs, simply type “Monday Movie Blog” in the Search feature in the upper left hand corner of this page. Please leave your movie selections based on comic book characters below. I invite you to join me tomorrow for the most uplifting post of the week, Simple Joys.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Friday Music Blog
Welcome to the Friday Music Blog on Chief 187 Chatter. Last week saw a surge in viewers and responders to the post, so I am bowing to conventional wisdom and taking suggestions from Vroom Vroom again. He recently sent me a ton of excellent topic ideas from which I am taking! I encourage you to leave your ideas with me via Twitter by following me and tweeting me @Chief187s. You may find YOUR topic in these pages at Chief 187 Chatter.
This week’s focus is songs with excellent bass lines! List any and all songs that have a strong, memorable, and awesome bass line. As Vroom Vroom wrote to me, he’s just gotta have MORE BASS GUITAR! Remember to list the artist who performs the song as well as the bassist’s name if you are able to find it/know it.
Another milestone was realized on Chief 187 Chatter when the counter surpassed 18000 pageviews! It seems this site has found a strong, loyal, and growing readership! I want to thank all who make Chief 187 Chatter a part of their daily routine! Please join me over the weekend for “catching up” on everything that has taken place here, and meet me back here on Monday to start a whole new week of original works!
This week’s focus is songs with excellent bass lines! List any and all songs that have a strong, memorable, and awesome bass line. As Vroom Vroom wrote to me, he’s just gotta have MORE BASS GUITAR! Remember to list the artist who performs the song as well as the bassist’s name if you are able to find it/know it.
Another milestone was realized on Chief 187 Chatter when the counter surpassed 18000 pageviews! It seems this site has found a strong, loyal, and growing readership! I want to thank all who make Chief 187 Chatter a part of their daily routine! Please join me over the weekend for “catching up” on everything that has taken place here, and meet me back here on Monday to start a whole new week of original works!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Tantalizing Thursday
Welcome to Tantalizing Thursday on Chief 187 Chatter. Summer is a time when I prefer to cook less with my stove and more with cooler appliances. In addition to grill food, the slow cooker I own gets quite a workout. Reasonable because it takes less expensive, tougher cuts of meat and yields a dinner that is tender, moist, and delicious, it is a fantastic tool to make short work of dinner! And, because I love Italian food but hate to stand over a hot pot of boiling water in the middle of summer, I look for recipes that work with pasta in the slow cooker as well. I like to be gone in the summer, swimming, playing, and exploring and a slow cooker allows for throwing simple ingredients together in the morning and providing a fantastic dinner at the end of the day with no work in between. Check out today’s recipe that can be done in a slow cooker.
Cheesy Crockpot Tortellini
By Linda Larsen as found on About.com
Ingredients:
1 pound bulk Italian sausage
26- ounce jar pasta sauce
14 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
9- ounce package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup shredded pizza cheese OR grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Cook sausage in heavy skillet over medium heat until browned, about 10 minutes. Stir sausage frequently to break it up as it cooks. Drain well and place in 4-5 quart slow cooker. Add pasta sauce, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning and stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours. Then, stir in tortellini, cover again, and cook on low for 20-40 minutes or until pasta is tender and heated through. Sprinkle with cheese and let stand 5 minutes before serving. 4 servings.
Although there are a couple of extra steps this recipe is simple and cuts down on the hot work of boiling the pasta and cooking the sauce on stovetop. Keep the cooked sausage in a container in the refrigerator so it is ready to go the morning you need it. While the pasta is cooking the last half hour before the meal, make a tossed salad and cut a baguette to serve with the meal. Experiment with different flavored sauces and tortellini to vary the taste and add to your dinner repertoire.
This is one of the more “involved” recipes for a slow cooker meal, but they all cut down on loads of work to prepare a home cooked meal. Slow cookers are one of my favorite kitchen tools, not just in summer, but also all year long. Look for more slow cooker recipes in the weeks and months to come. To access any former recipes from Chief 187 Chatter, simply type “Tantalizing Thursday” into the Search box located in the upper left hand corner of this page. Happy Eating!
Please join me tomorrow for the Friday Music Blog, an interactive post that is a truly fun way to end the week!
Cheesy Crockpot Tortellini
By Linda Larsen as found on About.com
Ingredients:
1 pound bulk Italian sausage
26- ounce jar pasta sauce
14 ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
9- ounce package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup shredded pizza cheese OR grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Cook sausage in heavy skillet over medium heat until browned, about 10 minutes. Stir sausage frequently to break it up as it cooks. Drain well and place in 4-5 quart slow cooker. Add pasta sauce, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning and stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours. Then, stir in tortellini, cover again, and cook on low for 20-40 minutes or until pasta is tender and heated through. Sprinkle with cheese and let stand 5 minutes before serving. 4 servings.
Although there are a couple of extra steps this recipe is simple and cuts down on the hot work of boiling the pasta and cooking the sauce on stovetop. Keep the cooked sausage in a container in the refrigerator so it is ready to go the morning you need it. While the pasta is cooking the last half hour before the meal, make a tossed salad and cut a baguette to serve with the meal. Experiment with different flavored sauces and tortellini to vary the taste and add to your dinner repertoire.
This is one of the more “involved” recipes for a slow cooker meal, but they all cut down on loads of work to prepare a home cooked meal. Slow cookers are one of my favorite kitchen tools, not just in summer, but also all year long. Look for more slow cooker recipes in the weeks and months to come. To access any former recipes from Chief 187 Chatter, simply type “Tantalizing Thursday” into the Search box located in the upper left hand corner of this page. Happy Eating!
Please join me tomorrow for the Friday Music Blog, an interactive post that is a truly fun way to end the week!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Impact Fighter
The first time Impact Fighter came to my attention, Chuck “Cold Steel” O’Neil was mentioning the outfit in his shout outs during the interview I conducted. Both on the radio and for the article I wrote about him, O’Neil made sure to mention the company that provided his shirts. Of course fighters need to do that; that’s part of the give and take of sponsorship and support. But Chuck O'Neil mentioned Impact Fighter of his own accord, they don't sponsor him; he believes in what Impact Fighter does and respects the company. What I didn’t know at the time is what an incredible company Impact Fighter is, how much they do for so many, and what an important role they play in the world of MMA. This is Impact Fighter.
Now approaching their first year anniversary as a company, it was a visit to the UFC Expo in Boston when friends Michael Carini and Matthew Coulsey generated the idea that grew into Impact Fighter. Longtime martial artist Carini was a huge fan of MMA and saw a need to give a chance to fighters in need and to support worthy causes. Michael Carini began by explaining “Both Matt’s wife’s mother died of cancer and my wife’s mother died of cancer so we have a Fighting Angel’s t-shirt; a couple of wings on the front with a Fighting Angel in American Cancer Pink and we donate a portion of each t-shirt sold to American Cancer.” Carini went on to relay the origins of Impact Fighter, “When we started this, it was kind of funny, we were driving home from the Expo and we were saying, ‘we’ve got to do this, how can we do this?’ We wanted to make an impact on MMA, on people’s lives. My buddy Matt Coulsey said, ‘Let’s call it Impact Fighter because people are always fighting for different reasons and it’s us wanting to make an impact.’ We brought in another friend of ours who owns MB Graphics in Abington who is a phenomenal graphic designer; his name is Mark Beaupre. We started it, we kicked it off and we ran with it.”
Impact Fighter’s first year has been, “Great!” exclaims Carini. “To be honest with you, this wasn’t something we knew we were going to make a living on; we all have jobs, we all do this for fun. We love MMA and we love helping people out.” Carini continued by revealing, “We’ve done fundraisers, working with individuals and organizations like the Cancer Society and Run for Home Base with the Boston Red Socks. It’s something nice to be able to do for the community and MMA.”
Impact Fighter does shirts for Chuck “Cold Steel” O’Neil who is fresh off a fantastic turn on the reality program The Ultimate Fighter Season 13, which aired on Spike. They also work with Mark Griffin who just got a spot in Bellator and Paddy Thompson who is a current titleholder in the American Fighting Organization (AFO). Impact Fighter kicks back a portion of the proceeds of each shirt sold of their fighter to their fighter. This helps Impact Fighter’s clients financially as in MMA, fighters do not make money outside of the cage and often need to hold steady “day jobs”.
This clothing line celebrates the MMA, gives back to both the fighters they support and the community at large, and concentrates on fundraising. Their shirts are graphically amazing, come in men and women’s styles, and, for the ladies, “are really comfortable, soft, and feminine with a cut that accentuates the ladies’ figure”. With such a positive message, generosity of spirit, and great product, Impact Fighter is here to stay and will continue to make inroads in the world of MMA. Look for a growing line, different styles debuting, and an expanded base in the near future. Impact Fighter wanted to be sure to shout out the AFO, Cage Titans, and Rich O Photography as well as their fighters Chuck “Cold Steel” O’Neil, Mark Griffin, and Paddy Thompson. To find out more about Impact Fighter please visit the following links:
To find Impact Fighter on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Impactfighter /
To follow Impact Fighter on Twitter: http://www.facebook.com/Impactfighter /
To check out Impact Fighter’s YouTube page: http://www.youtube.com/user/ImpactFighterMMA
It won’t be long before Impact Fighter’s dream of sponsoring a fighter in the UFC comes to fruition if they continue on this bright path! Check out Impact Fighter’s line and help support the fighters and causes of this worthy company.
Now approaching their first year anniversary as a company, it was a visit to the UFC Expo in Boston when friends Michael Carini and Matthew Coulsey generated the idea that grew into Impact Fighter. Longtime martial artist Carini was a huge fan of MMA and saw a need to give a chance to fighters in need and to support worthy causes. Michael Carini began by explaining “Both Matt’s wife’s mother died of cancer and my wife’s mother died of cancer so we have a Fighting Angel’s t-shirt; a couple of wings on the front with a Fighting Angel in American Cancer Pink and we donate a portion of each t-shirt sold to American Cancer.” Carini went on to relay the origins of Impact Fighter, “When we started this, it was kind of funny, we were driving home from the Expo and we were saying, ‘we’ve got to do this, how can we do this?’ We wanted to make an impact on MMA, on people’s lives. My buddy Matt Coulsey said, ‘Let’s call it Impact Fighter because people are always fighting for different reasons and it’s us wanting to make an impact.’ We brought in another friend of ours who owns MB Graphics in Abington who is a phenomenal graphic designer; his name is Mark Beaupre. We started it, we kicked it off and we ran with it.”
Impact Fighter’s first year has been, “Great!” exclaims Carini. “To be honest with you, this wasn’t something we knew we were going to make a living on; we all have jobs, we all do this for fun. We love MMA and we love helping people out.” Carini continued by revealing, “We’ve done fundraisers, working with individuals and organizations like the Cancer Society and Run for Home Base with the Boston Red Socks. It’s something nice to be able to do for the community and MMA.”
Impact Fighter does shirts for Chuck “Cold Steel” O’Neil who is fresh off a fantastic turn on the reality program The Ultimate Fighter Season 13, which aired on Spike. They also work with Mark Griffin who just got a spot in Bellator and Paddy Thompson who is a current titleholder in the American Fighting Organization (AFO). Impact Fighter kicks back a portion of the proceeds of each shirt sold of their fighter to their fighter. This helps Impact Fighter’s clients financially as in MMA, fighters do not make money outside of the cage and often need to hold steady “day jobs”.
This clothing line celebrates the MMA, gives back to both the fighters they support and the community at large, and concentrates on fundraising. Their shirts are graphically amazing, come in men and women’s styles, and, for the ladies, “are really comfortable, soft, and feminine with a cut that accentuates the ladies’ figure”. With such a positive message, generosity of spirit, and great product, Impact Fighter is here to stay and will continue to make inroads in the world of MMA. Look for a growing line, different styles debuting, and an expanded base in the near future. Impact Fighter wanted to be sure to shout out the AFO, Cage Titans, and Rich O Photography as well as their fighters Chuck “Cold Steel” O’Neil, Mark Griffin, and Paddy Thompson. To find out more about Impact Fighter please visit the following links:
To find Impact Fighter on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Impactfighter /
To follow Impact Fighter on Twitter: http://www.facebook.com/Impactfighter /
To check out Impact Fighter’s YouTube page: http://www.youtube.com/user/ImpactFighterMMA
It won’t be long before Impact Fighter’s dream of sponsoring a fighter in the UFC comes to fruition if they continue on this bright path! Check out Impact Fighter’s line and help support the fighters and causes of this worthy company.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Simple Joys
It is evident that what is most desired in the world today is a positive vibe; a place to go to feel safe, secure, loved, and honored. The real world is filled with peril, natural disaster, hurtful people and stress. What Simple Joys does weekly is reach beyond the misery, the difficulties, and the jarring reality, and reminds everyone to look around for the pure goodness that still exists. Simple Joys can manifest themselves seemingly out of thin air as long as people open themselves up to the possibility of their existence. Once Simple Joys are recognized, they become noticeable all of the time. Life becomes richer, calmer, more rewarding, and happier. I invite you in to Simple Joys at Chief 187 Chatter. Now, without further ado, is today’s Simple Joys.
Singing. Since the beginning of our relationship nearly twenty-five years ago, my husband and I have been singing together. We are not professionals and, although he is a talented amateur musician, we aren’t particularly great singers. But we love to sing. We enjoy singing together. We belt out tunes to our favorite songs. We serenade our children with James Taylor tunes. We regale the family with Christmas songs the entire season. And, in the car, we sing our hearts out whether it is from a Broadway musical or a classic rock song. From Billy Joel to Queen, the score of Rent to Les Miserables, or Silent Night to The Twelve Pains of Christmas, we sing anywhere any time. Our children have been sung to throughout their lives and are used to our sudden outbursts of song. Still, they occasionally ask for us to “Be QUIET” because I believe they are getting to that age where we are embarrassing. That won’t stop us, because singing unabashedly with my husband is one of my fondest and long-lasting Simple Joys.
Harry Potter. I came late to this party. I’ve written before that my association with the boy wizard only occurred last summer after my oldest child received the Wii Lego Harry Potter Years 1-4 game for his August birthday. From that point on we watched every movie, started reading the books, and even listened to them on audio books with the incomparable Jim Dale as the narrator. In November I was treated to seeing the seventh movie, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I, with my son. It was fantastic! We couldn’t wait for the second half of the movie and continued to watch/read/listen to all things Harry Potter. We’ve built Lego sets with Harry Potter themes, discussed the themes and plots ad nauseum, and started a countdown to the premiere. The time finally came and we were once again in a darkened theater awaiting the film. Without releasing any spoilers, I was thrilled with the movie! Dark, foreboding, and heavy, it was still a great film about good versus evil. It documented the boy’s journey from muggle to top wizard. Characters were revealed for their true motivations and loyalties, and the good prevails in a showdown that is riveting, exciting, and breath taking! My favorite parts of the movie were when the audience I was watching with simultaneously broke out into thunderous applause in certain parts of the movie! The shared community as theatergoers totally invested in the film was the part that made seeing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II in the movie theater a huge Simple Joy this week!
Social Networking. My career has all come about thanks to the Internet. It has grown exponentially because of social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook. Each day I post my articles, blogs, columns, and radio show times for my followers and friends to check out. I am bombarded with the most sweet, supportive, and kind comments! Many say the Internet is a terrible place and social networking is truly anti-social and opens you up to vulnerabilities. I know that in reality you must be careful, but I also know that in my experience it is a wonderful place that brightens my day each day. From simple greetings to retweeted posts, a boon of support to a prompt to “keep writing because I love reading your stuff”, I am honored, flattered, and humbled by the power of social networking, and the incredibly loving people who I’ve never met who support me and lift me to the stars. I believe, like anything in life, you get back what you put out there. I genuinely love those I’ve connected on social networking and support their causes, careers, and friendships, too! Being a part of the world of social networking is a Simple Joy that gives back to me daily!
Little Hands. My children give me inexplicable pleasure in life. They also frustrate, annoy, and torture me. But the good they bring far outweighs the bad and for that I am truly grateful. Recently, with summer in full swing and our outdoor activities constant, the need for applying suntan lotion (sun block) is ever-present. I slather my children daily in a futile exercise of saving their skin from the ravishes of the sun. They invariably get suntanned/burned because the reapply doesn’t ever seem to happen. Tired of my own skin burning I requested my children help apply the lotion on my back. My middle son, the four-year-old, loved this idea and prides himself in helping Mommy. His little hands hold gobs of white lotion as he places it in the middle of my back over and over and over again. His scope of how much and where to apply very limited, I ignore the fact that I’m not fully protected and instead thoroughly enjoy the feel of his child hands touching me ever so gently. He is my protector, my helper, and a true Angel of Mercy. All too soon he will be unwilling to touch his mom; too rushed, uninterested or embarrassed to comply with my request. But right now he willingly, lovingly, and graciously volunteers to “goop Mom” and that is a Simple Joy I will cherish forever.
Simple Joys are not unique to me. They exist for everyone who opens themselves up to their existence. I write mine because they help me focus on the good in my life. I find perspective, count my blessings, and selfishly feel great sharing them. I always welcome your Simple Joys in comments and look forward to reading them! But, whether you write them for all to see, stow them in a private journal, or only make a mental list, try to do so daily and you will find that Simple Joys are lurking everywhere and increase the positive in your life!
I invite you to join me tomorrow when I wax poetic on an entirely new topic. Wishing you all Simple Joys!
Singing. Since the beginning of our relationship nearly twenty-five years ago, my husband and I have been singing together. We are not professionals and, although he is a talented amateur musician, we aren’t particularly great singers. But we love to sing. We enjoy singing together. We belt out tunes to our favorite songs. We serenade our children with James Taylor tunes. We regale the family with Christmas songs the entire season. And, in the car, we sing our hearts out whether it is from a Broadway musical or a classic rock song. From Billy Joel to Queen, the score of Rent to Les Miserables, or Silent Night to The Twelve Pains of Christmas, we sing anywhere any time. Our children have been sung to throughout their lives and are used to our sudden outbursts of song. Still, they occasionally ask for us to “Be QUIET” because I believe they are getting to that age where we are embarrassing. That won’t stop us, because singing unabashedly with my husband is one of my fondest and long-lasting Simple Joys.
Harry Potter. I came late to this party. I’ve written before that my association with the boy wizard only occurred last summer after my oldest child received the Wii Lego Harry Potter Years 1-4 game for his August birthday. From that point on we watched every movie, started reading the books, and even listened to them on audio books with the incomparable Jim Dale as the narrator. In November I was treated to seeing the seventh movie, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I, with my son. It was fantastic! We couldn’t wait for the second half of the movie and continued to watch/read/listen to all things Harry Potter. We’ve built Lego sets with Harry Potter themes, discussed the themes and plots ad nauseum, and started a countdown to the premiere. The time finally came and we were once again in a darkened theater awaiting the film. Without releasing any spoilers, I was thrilled with the movie! Dark, foreboding, and heavy, it was still a great film about good versus evil. It documented the boy’s journey from muggle to top wizard. Characters were revealed for their true motivations and loyalties, and the good prevails in a showdown that is riveting, exciting, and breath taking! My favorite parts of the movie were when the audience I was watching with simultaneously broke out into thunderous applause in certain parts of the movie! The shared community as theatergoers totally invested in the film was the part that made seeing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II in the movie theater a huge Simple Joy this week!
Social Networking. My career has all come about thanks to the Internet. It has grown exponentially because of social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook. Each day I post my articles, blogs, columns, and radio show times for my followers and friends to check out. I am bombarded with the most sweet, supportive, and kind comments! Many say the Internet is a terrible place and social networking is truly anti-social and opens you up to vulnerabilities. I know that in reality you must be careful, but I also know that in my experience it is a wonderful place that brightens my day each day. From simple greetings to retweeted posts, a boon of support to a prompt to “keep writing because I love reading your stuff”, I am honored, flattered, and humbled by the power of social networking, and the incredibly loving people who I’ve never met who support me and lift me to the stars. I believe, like anything in life, you get back what you put out there. I genuinely love those I’ve connected on social networking and support their causes, careers, and friendships, too! Being a part of the world of social networking is a Simple Joy that gives back to me daily!
Little Hands. My children give me inexplicable pleasure in life. They also frustrate, annoy, and torture me. But the good they bring far outweighs the bad and for that I am truly grateful. Recently, with summer in full swing and our outdoor activities constant, the need for applying suntan lotion (sun block) is ever-present. I slather my children daily in a futile exercise of saving their skin from the ravishes of the sun. They invariably get suntanned/burned because the reapply doesn’t ever seem to happen. Tired of my own skin burning I requested my children help apply the lotion on my back. My middle son, the four-year-old, loved this idea and prides himself in helping Mommy. His little hands hold gobs of white lotion as he places it in the middle of my back over and over and over again. His scope of how much and where to apply very limited, I ignore the fact that I’m not fully protected and instead thoroughly enjoy the feel of his child hands touching me ever so gently. He is my protector, my helper, and a true Angel of Mercy. All too soon he will be unwilling to touch his mom; too rushed, uninterested or embarrassed to comply with my request. But right now he willingly, lovingly, and graciously volunteers to “goop Mom” and that is a Simple Joy I will cherish forever.
Simple Joys are not unique to me. They exist for everyone who opens themselves up to their existence. I write mine because they help me focus on the good in my life. I find perspective, count my blessings, and selfishly feel great sharing them. I always welcome your Simple Joys in comments and look forward to reading them! But, whether you write them for all to see, stow them in a private journal, or only make a mental list, try to do so daily and you will find that Simple Joys are lurking everywhere and increase the positive in your life!
I invite you to join me tomorrow when I wax poetic on an entirely new topic. Wishing you all Simple Joys!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Monday Movie Blog
Welcome to the Monday Movie Blog on Chief 187 Chatter. This weekend I treated myself to a rare movie in the theater! It reawakened my love affair of “going to the movies”. I was delighted with my choice and will write about it at length on tomorrow’s Simple Joys. Movies are a popular genre on Chief 187 Chatter and it is with great pleasure I issue topics for all to explore.
Today’s focus is movies based on books. What are your favorite movies based on books? Please include the actors in the film as well as a brief synopsis of the plot and/or a review. Did you feel the movie surpassed the book, fell short, or did a decent job? Were you pleased with the casting or did you feel they did not stay loyal to the integrity of the character? List your favorites as well as the reasons you loved it or simply tolerated it.
To access former Monday Movie Blog topics, from the alphabetical resource created to other topics, please type “Monday Movie Blog” in the Search box in the upper left hand corner of this page. Feel free to add to any topic you feel needs more information as this is a living document meant to be supplemented with the latest and greatest information.
I invite you all to join me tomorrow for Simple Joys, the most popular and uplifting post of the week. Thank you for spending a few minutes at Chief 187 Chatter!
Today’s focus is movies based on books. What are your favorite movies based on books? Please include the actors in the film as well as a brief synopsis of the plot and/or a review. Did you feel the movie surpassed the book, fell short, or did a decent job? Were you pleased with the casting or did you feel they did not stay loyal to the integrity of the character? List your favorites as well as the reasons you loved it or simply tolerated it.
To access former Monday Movie Blog topics, from the alphabetical resource created to other topics, please type “Monday Movie Blog” in the Search box in the upper left hand corner of this page. Feel free to add to any topic you feel needs more information as this is a living document meant to be supplemented with the latest and greatest information.
I invite you all to join me tomorrow for Simple Joys, the most popular and uplifting post of the week. Thank you for spending a few minutes at Chief 187 Chatter!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Friday Music Blog
Music has the ability to transform a mood, stir passion, and give hope, sometimes all at the same time. It has helped me recognize love, stay when leaving seemed easier, and celebrate incredible moments. It has soothed my ego, allowed me to cry unabashedly with a plethora of emotions, and kept me going when exhaustion had a stranglehold on me. Although no expert, I know what I like and I must have what I love. The Friday Music Blog is a selfish way for me to surround myself with the music that pleases me while allowing others their musical passions. The Friday Music Blog is my original creation, my first “series”, and very important to me. It is sincerely my pleasure to bring original topics to you all weekly to revel in our shared love of music.
This week’s focus is brought to us by Friday Music Blog loyal reader and responder Vroom Vroom. He suggests “Best First 10 Seconds” songs; the songs that grab the listener in the first seconds with the first strains. As with all music topics I provide, this is purely subjective. What songs fit the topic to you?
In a turn of incredible events Chief 187 Chatter turned over 17000 pageviews this week and the numbers keep rising at a skyrocketing pace. In addition to checking on this blog throughout the weekend, I invite you to view other posts, especially this week’s Simple Joys that set site records for one-day pageviews as well as all-time views! It is currently the most read article on my site. Thank you to each and every one of you for continuing to make Chief 187 Chatter relevant and newsworthy, and for supporting me in my endeavors. I look forward, as always, to reading your responses to today’s Friday Music Blog, and bringing you all new original material starting Monday.
This week’s focus is brought to us by Friday Music Blog loyal reader and responder Vroom Vroom. He suggests “Best First 10 Seconds” songs; the songs that grab the listener in the first seconds with the first strains. As with all music topics I provide, this is purely subjective. What songs fit the topic to you?
In a turn of incredible events Chief 187 Chatter turned over 17000 pageviews this week and the numbers keep rising at a skyrocketing pace. In addition to checking on this blog throughout the weekend, I invite you to view other posts, especially this week’s Simple Joys that set site records for one-day pageviews as well as all-time views! It is currently the most read article on my site. Thank you to each and every one of you for continuing to make Chief 187 Chatter relevant and newsworthy, and for supporting me in my endeavors. I look forward, as always, to reading your responses to today’s Friday Music Blog, and bringing you all new original material starting Monday.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Tantalizing Thursday
Welcome to Tantalizing Thursday on Chief 187 Chatter. Summer months are the time to grill. Cooking outdoors, smells wafting from the barbeque, and savory feasts presented with grill marks make for a succulent dining experience. When entertaining during the summer, it’s wonderful to have a meal that serves many, is relatively inexpensive, yet tastes divine. The recipe that follows fits the bill perfectly. Happy Grilling!
Racer’s Marinated London Broil
Recipe created by Racer 187
Ingredients:
¾ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
¼ cup Worcestershire Sauce
½ teaspoon liquid smoke
fresh ground black pepper
1 teaspoon of bottled minced garlic
2 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil
1 ½ - 2 lb. London Broil
Directions:
Place all ingredients for the marinade in a 13 x 9 x 2 casserole dish; stir vigorously with a fork. Using a fork, pierce both sides of the meat. Place the meat in the casserole making sure the marinade comes about halfway up on the sides of the meat. Flip the meat several times to make sure it is well saturated and evenly coated. Cover and set in refrigerator overnight. First thing in the morning, flip the meat several times again, making sure the end result is opposite of what was side up over night. Return to refrigerator. Have meat come to room temperature approximately one hour before cooking (obviously, remove from fridge). Grill meat 8-12 minutes on each side, TURNING ONLY ONCE. Do not open the grill aside from the one flip. Once the second side is finished remove from heat. LET THE MEAT REST FOR AT LEAST 10 MINUTES. Allowing the meat to rest before slicing it will result in a juicier moister finished product; the longer it sits with a cover to keep it warm the better. Cut the meat across the grain in very thin slices to serve.
As with any recipe, adjust quantity and ingredients to fit the taste of those you are cooking for. The secret of this marinade/preparation is overnight marinating to break the meat down rendering it much more tender, cooking it just so then letting it rest, and thin slicing for a perfect meal every time. A tossed salad, fresh green vegetable or corn on the cob, and a starch like rice pilaf or potato salad are fantastic accompaniments. The meat is certainly tasty, but a horseradish sauce is a great complement. Make sure to have two London Broils marinated and grilled, because one will disappear quickly and the leftovers are fantastic tossed with a salad, in a steak sandwich, or cold out of the Tupperware!
Please join me tomorrow as we close another week at Chief 187 Chatter with the Friday Music Blog.
Racer’s Marinated London Broil
Recipe created by Racer 187
Ingredients:
¾ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
¼ cup Worcestershire Sauce
½ teaspoon liquid smoke
fresh ground black pepper
1 teaspoon of bottled minced garlic
2 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil
1 ½ - 2 lb. London Broil
Directions:
Place all ingredients for the marinade in a 13 x 9 x 2 casserole dish; stir vigorously with a fork. Using a fork, pierce both sides of the meat. Place the meat in the casserole making sure the marinade comes about halfway up on the sides of the meat. Flip the meat several times to make sure it is well saturated and evenly coated. Cover and set in refrigerator overnight. First thing in the morning, flip the meat several times again, making sure the end result is opposite of what was side up over night. Return to refrigerator. Have meat come to room temperature approximately one hour before cooking (obviously, remove from fridge). Grill meat 8-12 minutes on each side, TURNING ONLY ONCE. Do not open the grill aside from the one flip. Once the second side is finished remove from heat. LET THE MEAT REST FOR AT LEAST 10 MINUTES. Allowing the meat to rest before slicing it will result in a juicier moister finished product; the longer it sits with a cover to keep it warm the better. Cut the meat across the grain in very thin slices to serve.
As with any recipe, adjust quantity and ingredients to fit the taste of those you are cooking for. The secret of this marinade/preparation is overnight marinating to break the meat down rendering it much more tender, cooking it just so then letting it rest, and thin slicing for a perfect meal every time. A tossed salad, fresh green vegetable or corn on the cob, and a starch like rice pilaf or potato salad are fantastic accompaniments. The meat is certainly tasty, but a horseradish sauce is a great complement. Make sure to have two London Broils marinated and grilled, because one will disappear quickly and the leftovers are fantastic tossed with a salad, in a steak sandwich, or cold out of the Tupperware!
Please join me tomorrow as we close another week at Chief 187 Chatter with the Friday Music Blog.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Flying Off the Handle
I’m telling on myself, it’s the only way to keep me honest. For all of my good qualities I have equal and horrifyingly bad ones. Although I didn’t do really well in my college physics class, I did pass and I did recall something about this… I think. Well, it was either physics or psychology. Whatever. The point is, as much as I am trying to, and in many cases, succeeding in building my life on a strong, positive foundation, I still have character defects that keep me “on the path” rather than “at my destination” to a better me.
Temper. My temper is still a reckless creature that has its own life and mind. I try to keep it at bay, but it rears its ugly head far too often for my taste. Flared up by insecurity, stress, hunger, or simply the heat, my temper is rather like Sherman’s March on Atlanta, all encompassing and savage. I try to exercise to sweat out my rage, practice techniques to calm myself before things get out of hand, and even try to foster an environment where no anger exists, but at some point the temper surfaces and wins out for a brief time. I can say I am better than I used to be… sort of… but I’m still not great at “letting water roll off my back like a duck”. No, I sputter, swear, fume, and surge before I recover and reconnoiter what the root of the problem was that led me to that reaction. It is not easy admitting this, but I do believe that we all have anger in common. The degrees to which we express our anger is based on several factors, how we were raised, the circumstances in our lives now, but anger is an emotion humans share. I’m not proud of this defect and I’d desperately like to change it, but I try to reason that anger is many times a conduit to deep discussion and ultimately the start of a solution. Anger, if expressed, can be the culprit that leads to communication and possibly change. Still, I know I need to work on my temper, for my health and for the sanity of those around me. It’s a definitely a priority.
Unfocused. My head is filled with trillions of bits of information. Input comes from all over: the children, my work (six sites, eight plus blogs/articles/columns per week, interviews, three radio shows), Cub Scouts, Swim Team, Karate, friends, Facebook, Twitter, Empire Avenue, Klout, and, of course, my husband. Who or what do you think gets the least attention when he/it deserves the most? Yes, it’s my husband. Again, I don’t look good in this post, but I’m keeping it honest in the hopes of prompting a change in the right direction. I am guilty as sin when it comes to going through the motions of listening and not hearing what is being told to me by the man who is my partner, my lover, my best friend, the father of my children, my racecar driver, and the person I’ve spent a quarter century in love. It is a crime, a travesty, and an injustice that I need to correct stat! I need to decompress and focus when the man needs my attention. He deserves it. I’ve yet to figure out the way to zone in and let the information he is relaying wash over me and truly sink in so I can recall it, act on it, and simply remember it when pressed gently. At this I fail, miserably. I am often forgetting entire conversations, asking questions searching for information he just gave me, and misunderstanding most of what he tries to communicate to me. In all honesty, this all became an acute problem once we had children, but I cannot blame this all on them. I am to blame. I have yet to truly prioritize. I’ve written many times before, and I believe what I write, but I’ve never acted completely on the following philosophy: my husband and our relationship is my highest priority. Now, all I need to do is stop thinking of him as a “given” like in geometry when one is doing proofs, and treating him with the dignity and respect he deserves. It’s not like he doesn’t think the children need me less than him or that I’m not supposed to have a life, but he has felt like he doesn’t matter. The more men I talk to the more I hear this as a common thread. I value my husband, his place in our family, and his place in my life. I would not treat the head of the PTA like I do my husband sometimes, so I am making a conscious effort to try to stop and focus on him and his words. It’s the least I can do!
Weight. I’m not thin. There, I admitted it. Well, I’ve never been. I have curves and, blessed with height, fill out my frame well. But, as a new age decade looms in a little over a year, I find I pack on weight very easily and cannot take it off effortlessly. I do try to workout several mornings a week and we do try to eat healthfully, but it is difficult for me to find balance. As a writer I am at my desk pounding away on my keyboard for hours every week. I do the same to promote my work and do the radio programs I’m on weekly. I am driving my children hither and yon as nothing is walking-distance, and we do not have a safe area to ride bikes near our home without driving somewhere first. I know the secret to healthy living is eating less and exercising, but I am ridiculously hungry throughout the day. I understand protein and fiber fill me up, to eat smaller meals more often, and the like, but when my kids bring home goody bags filled with candy, I make a homemade birthday cake or the homemade pasta sauce I perfected beckons it is terribly hard to resist. One of the goals of Chief 187 Chatter was to encourage myself to gain a healthier me (consistent exercise, eating better, and dropping inches before my milestone birthday in August 2012). I’ve fallen short of several of my goals and the end of year one is quickly approaching. I’m going to have to step up my game plan and find a way to make a healthier lifestyle a priority.
It is important to me to keep the integrity of these posts. I do swear by the accuracy and truth of blogs such as Simple Joys, child rearing and marriage posts, as well as all of the other content, but I must balance that with who and what else I am. I am imperfect, flawed, real, and honest. I am a work-in-progress and for every victory I attain there are several failures littering my floor. But I do not give up nor shy away from the tasks at hand. Admitting them is the first step and I’ve done that here. With humor, love, a positive attitude, a willingness to change, and a platform to continue to work things out (Chief 187 Chatter), I am fully dedicated to the cause – me!
Temper. My temper is still a reckless creature that has its own life and mind. I try to keep it at bay, but it rears its ugly head far too often for my taste. Flared up by insecurity, stress, hunger, or simply the heat, my temper is rather like Sherman’s March on Atlanta, all encompassing and savage. I try to exercise to sweat out my rage, practice techniques to calm myself before things get out of hand, and even try to foster an environment where no anger exists, but at some point the temper surfaces and wins out for a brief time. I can say I am better than I used to be… sort of… but I’m still not great at “letting water roll off my back like a duck”. No, I sputter, swear, fume, and surge before I recover and reconnoiter what the root of the problem was that led me to that reaction. It is not easy admitting this, but I do believe that we all have anger in common. The degrees to which we express our anger is based on several factors, how we were raised, the circumstances in our lives now, but anger is an emotion humans share. I’m not proud of this defect and I’d desperately like to change it, but I try to reason that anger is many times a conduit to deep discussion and ultimately the start of a solution. Anger, if expressed, can be the culprit that leads to communication and possibly change. Still, I know I need to work on my temper, for my health and for the sanity of those around me. It’s a definitely a priority.
Unfocused. My head is filled with trillions of bits of information. Input comes from all over: the children, my work (six sites, eight plus blogs/articles/columns per week, interviews, three radio shows), Cub Scouts, Swim Team, Karate, friends, Facebook, Twitter, Empire Avenue, Klout, and, of course, my husband. Who or what do you think gets the least attention when he/it deserves the most? Yes, it’s my husband. Again, I don’t look good in this post, but I’m keeping it honest in the hopes of prompting a change in the right direction. I am guilty as sin when it comes to going through the motions of listening and not hearing what is being told to me by the man who is my partner, my lover, my best friend, the father of my children, my racecar driver, and the person I’ve spent a quarter century in love. It is a crime, a travesty, and an injustice that I need to correct stat! I need to decompress and focus when the man needs my attention. He deserves it. I’ve yet to figure out the way to zone in and let the information he is relaying wash over me and truly sink in so I can recall it, act on it, and simply remember it when pressed gently. At this I fail, miserably. I am often forgetting entire conversations, asking questions searching for information he just gave me, and misunderstanding most of what he tries to communicate to me. In all honesty, this all became an acute problem once we had children, but I cannot blame this all on them. I am to blame. I have yet to truly prioritize. I’ve written many times before, and I believe what I write, but I’ve never acted completely on the following philosophy: my husband and our relationship is my highest priority. Now, all I need to do is stop thinking of him as a “given” like in geometry when one is doing proofs, and treating him with the dignity and respect he deserves. It’s not like he doesn’t think the children need me less than him or that I’m not supposed to have a life, but he has felt like he doesn’t matter. The more men I talk to the more I hear this as a common thread. I value my husband, his place in our family, and his place in my life. I would not treat the head of the PTA like I do my husband sometimes, so I am making a conscious effort to try to stop and focus on him and his words. It’s the least I can do!
Weight. I’m not thin. There, I admitted it. Well, I’ve never been. I have curves and, blessed with height, fill out my frame well. But, as a new age decade looms in a little over a year, I find I pack on weight very easily and cannot take it off effortlessly. I do try to workout several mornings a week and we do try to eat healthfully, but it is difficult for me to find balance. As a writer I am at my desk pounding away on my keyboard for hours every week. I do the same to promote my work and do the radio programs I’m on weekly. I am driving my children hither and yon as nothing is walking-distance, and we do not have a safe area to ride bikes near our home without driving somewhere first. I know the secret to healthy living is eating less and exercising, but I am ridiculously hungry throughout the day. I understand protein and fiber fill me up, to eat smaller meals more often, and the like, but when my kids bring home goody bags filled with candy, I make a homemade birthday cake or the homemade pasta sauce I perfected beckons it is terribly hard to resist. One of the goals of Chief 187 Chatter was to encourage myself to gain a healthier me (consistent exercise, eating better, and dropping inches before my milestone birthday in August 2012). I’ve fallen short of several of my goals and the end of year one is quickly approaching. I’m going to have to step up my game plan and find a way to make a healthier lifestyle a priority.
It is important to me to keep the integrity of these posts. I do swear by the accuracy and truth of blogs such as Simple Joys, child rearing and marriage posts, as well as all of the other content, but I must balance that with who and what else I am. I am imperfect, flawed, real, and honest. I am a work-in-progress and for every victory I attain there are several failures littering my floor. But I do not give up nor shy away from the tasks at hand. Admitting them is the first step and I’ve done that here. With humor, love, a positive attitude, a willingness to change, and a platform to continue to work things out (Chief 187 Chatter), I am fully dedicated to the cause – me!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Simple Joys
Welcome to Simple Joys at Chief 187 Chatter. Simple Joys are the little moments in life that add immensely to your overall happiness. They are at times spontaneous, some times planned, but are always pleasurable and wonderful. As difficult as it may seem to find Simple Joys at first, the more you open your heart and mind, regardless of your circumstances, the more receptive you become to them. I urge you to think about all of the Simple Joys that fill your day; I’m betting the list is quite extensive! Now, without further ado, is this week’s Simple Joys.
Swimming at the Lake. Summer has finally arrived in my part of the world. It was slow to settle, but now has embraced us with scorching temperatures, endless sun, and humid air. The only place I love to be in these months is in the largest lake in New Jersey, swimming. My earliest memories are of me swimming, constantly. The term “fish” was often used to describe me. I was more comfortable in a swimsuit than any other article of clothing. I would get in the water early in the morning and stay until the dinner bell rang, and often return after that! Now, it is a true treat to take my children to the lake house my parents occupy in the summer months. We store our suits and towels there, an economy-sized bottle of sun block, and take every opportunity that arises to swim. The children and I swim for literally hours. “Real” swimming, fun swimming, sitting on “noodles” and other floats, and treading water are the activities that keep us in the water. Spending every possible moment at the lake swimming is summer’s greatest Simple Joy for the children and me
Power Outage. The other night my husband and I arrived home at the exact same moment at dinnertime. We pushed our respective remote devices to open our individual garage doors and… nothing happened. My husband, not skipping a beat, got into the garage and manually opened the doors so we could park. Of course, the pasta dinner I had prepped to make prior to my son’s swim meet the following day was unable to be made without electricity so my husband suggested the local Italian restaurant for dinner. We enjoyed a fun meal and returned to no power still. With waning day light we huddled in the family room, played toys, and engaged in an epic game of “rough housing” or “tickling”. It was a moment that made me pause and think how very blessed and lucky we are to have three beautiful, healthy, and engaging children. All too often I get caught up in deadlines, schedules, and “have-tos” and forget to slow down, enjoy the moments, and be grateful for the many riches (non-monetary) that have been bestowed. We readied the children for bed. I pulled out a long-forgotten book light that enabled me to read the children a bedtime story, and sent them to sleep a bit earlier than normal. I was so anxious to do the same; read and hit the hay early, when the power returned. The power outage was relatively short-lived which is truly a good thing, but I was a bit saddened that it couldn’t have lasted a little longer. Being unplugged from television, computer, and lights was so very peaceful and fun that it ranks among the highest of my Simple Joys this week.
Rowdy Chat. I’ve written many times of my path back to NASCAR fandom having a lot to do with a NASCAR social networking site called Rowdy. I am still an active member and consistently show up on NASCAR Sprint Cup race days/nights in the Race Day chat. It is a blast to type in real time with people who share a passion for the same sport I do, and to go off on crazy tangents that is rarely questioned by any! Rowdy Chat is a comfortable and weekly Simple Joy!
Charlotte’s Web. When my oldest child was four I read to him Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White. It was the first chapter book he’d been read and he liked it, although it was difficult for him to stay enthusiastic when there weren’t many pictures. Still, I persevered and we finished the book in good stead. As an eight-year-old third grader he reread the book as a class assignment and truly delighted in the experience! When I inquired if he’d remembered any of the book from the time I had read it to him he simply replied, “No.” Saddened but undeterred, I took the book out this summer to read to my now four-year-old second son. Because his big brother had just read it in school, he was most enthusiastic to hear the story. Like his brother before him the lengthy passages and lack of illustrations did leave him a bit unfocused, but he rallied often and seemed to follow the story well. We finished the book this past Sunday. It was terribly emotional for me as it always has been. A tale of a friendship between a runt pig and a grey spider is beautifully crafted, enormously interesting, and wholly heart wrenching. From the first pages I am in tears barely able to keep my composure (let’s face it, NEVER able to keep my composure) and finish the book the very same way. Poignant, charming, clever, metaphorical, and sweet, the book stands the test of time; it is universal in theme and timeless. If you have never had the pleasure of reading this classic juvenile literature, I urge you to pick it up. It is a lovely book to share with a young person, even if that young person simply lives inside of you still. The only consolations I have about finishing the book are I have yet to read it to my daughter and we start James and the Giant Peach this week! Sharing childhood favorites like Charlotte’s Web is truly one of life’s most intimate and special Simple Joys.
Simple Joys have become a signature for me. I wish my friends, followers, readers, and relatives all Simple Joys. It is a sincere wish for all I come in contact both virtually and in “real life”. To experience and recognize Simple Joys is a special gift and may even be one of the Secrets of Life. Wishing you all Simple Joys!
Please join me tomorrow when I wax poetic on yet another topic!
Swimming at the Lake. Summer has finally arrived in my part of the world. It was slow to settle, but now has embraced us with scorching temperatures, endless sun, and humid air. The only place I love to be in these months is in the largest lake in New Jersey, swimming. My earliest memories are of me swimming, constantly. The term “fish” was often used to describe me. I was more comfortable in a swimsuit than any other article of clothing. I would get in the water early in the morning and stay until the dinner bell rang, and often return after that! Now, it is a true treat to take my children to the lake house my parents occupy in the summer months. We store our suits and towels there, an economy-sized bottle of sun block, and take every opportunity that arises to swim. The children and I swim for literally hours. “Real” swimming, fun swimming, sitting on “noodles” and other floats, and treading water are the activities that keep us in the water. Spending every possible moment at the lake swimming is summer’s greatest Simple Joy for the children and me
Power Outage. The other night my husband and I arrived home at the exact same moment at dinnertime. We pushed our respective remote devices to open our individual garage doors and… nothing happened. My husband, not skipping a beat, got into the garage and manually opened the doors so we could park. Of course, the pasta dinner I had prepped to make prior to my son’s swim meet the following day was unable to be made without electricity so my husband suggested the local Italian restaurant for dinner. We enjoyed a fun meal and returned to no power still. With waning day light we huddled in the family room, played toys, and engaged in an epic game of “rough housing” or “tickling”. It was a moment that made me pause and think how very blessed and lucky we are to have three beautiful, healthy, and engaging children. All too often I get caught up in deadlines, schedules, and “have-tos” and forget to slow down, enjoy the moments, and be grateful for the many riches (non-monetary) that have been bestowed. We readied the children for bed. I pulled out a long-forgotten book light that enabled me to read the children a bedtime story, and sent them to sleep a bit earlier than normal. I was so anxious to do the same; read and hit the hay early, when the power returned. The power outage was relatively short-lived which is truly a good thing, but I was a bit saddened that it couldn’t have lasted a little longer. Being unplugged from television, computer, and lights was so very peaceful and fun that it ranks among the highest of my Simple Joys this week.
Rowdy Chat. I’ve written many times of my path back to NASCAR fandom having a lot to do with a NASCAR social networking site called Rowdy. I am still an active member and consistently show up on NASCAR Sprint Cup race days/nights in the Race Day chat. It is a blast to type in real time with people who share a passion for the same sport I do, and to go off on crazy tangents that is rarely questioned by any! Rowdy Chat is a comfortable and weekly Simple Joy!
Charlotte’s Web. When my oldest child was four I read to him Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White. It was the first chapter book he’d been read and he liked it, although it was difficult for him to stay enthusiastic when there weren’t many pictures. Still, I persevered and we finished the book in good stead. As an eight-year-old third grader he reread the book as a class assignment and truly delighted in the experience! When I inquired if he’d remembered any of the book from the time I had read it to him he simply replied, “No.” Saddened but undeterred, I took the book out this summer to read to my now four-year-old second son. Because his big brother had just read it in school, he was most enthusiastic to hear the story. Like his brother before him the lengthy passages and lack of illustrations did leave him a bit unfocused, but he rallied often and seemed to follow the story well. We finished the book this past Sunday. It was terribly emotional for me as it always has been. A tale of a friendship between a runt pig and a grey spider is beautifully crafted, enormously interesting, and wholly heart wrenching. From the first pages I am in tears barely able to keep my composure (let’s face it, NEVER able to keep my composure) and finish the book the very same way. Poignant, charming, clever, metaphorical, and sweet, the book stands the test of time; it is universal in theme and timeless. If you have never had the pleasure of reading this classic juvenile literature, I urge you to pick it up. It is a lovely book to share with a young person, even if that young person simply lives inside of you still. The only consolations I have about finishing the book are I have yet to read it to my daughter and we start James and the Giant Peach this week! Sharing childhood favorites like Charlotte’s Web is truly one of life’s most intimate and special Simple Joys.
Simple Joys have become a signature for me. I wish my friends, followers, readers, and relatives all Simple Joys. It is a sincere wish for all I come in contact both virtually and in “real life”. To experience and recognize Simple Joys is a special gift and may even be one of the Secrets of Life. Wishing you all Simple Joys!
Please join me tomorrow when I wax poetic on yet another topic!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Monday Movie Blog
Welcome to the Monday Movie Blog on Chief 187 Chatter! After six months of painstakingly creating an alphabetical resource of favorite movies, it is time to explore new formats for this blog. Whether tackling different genres, actors’ movies, or movies connected to song, we’ll delve into many topics.
This week’s focus is movie sequels. Summer is notoriously a time for releasing sequels and Hollywood certainly enjoys bleeding a big seller for all its worth by creating these “gems”. What are your favorite movies that are sequels? Please give the movie title, the original movie it was sourced, a list of actors, and a brief synopsis or review.
Please join me tomorrow for the most uplifting post of the week, Simple Joys. To reach me, tweet me @Chief187s. Send me your comments and suggestions and don’t forget to follow me to make sure you receive updates on all of my postings.
This week’s focus is movie sequels. Summer is notoriously a time for releasing sequels and Hollywood certainly enjoys bleeding a big seller for all its worth by creating these “gems”. What are your favorite movies that are sequels? Please give the movie title, the original movie it was sourced, a list of actors, and a brief synopsis or review.
Please join me tomorrow for the most uplifting post of the week, Simple Joys. To reach me, tweet me @Chief187s. Send me your comments and suggestions and don’t forget to follow me to make sure you receive updates on all of my postings.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Friday Music Blog
Welcome to the Friday Music Blog on Chief 187 Chatter. Fully in my summer routine, enjoying fun in the sun, swimming, relaxing, and spending time with my kids, I realize how much music means to my everyday life. From singing in the car with my children to belting out my favorite tunes in the shower, and listening to my iPod to hearing live music performed, music turns me on like nothing else. I created the Friday Music Blog years ago to share my passion for music and to pick the brains of those around me to see what other music I could get turned on to. It worked! I’ve been given tons of suggestions, been sent music, and reminded of gems that got lost in my clouded memory. With each week I get excited anew to think that this is another opportunity for me to surround myself with more music!
Today’s focus is your five favorite songs RIGHT NOW! What songs are on heavy rotation in your iPod, constantly on your mind, and get turned up loudly when they come on the radio? Please list the song name as well as the artist who performs it.
Please check back with this post throughout the day and weekend to see what new selections were added. If you are curious to see what other topics have been tackled on the Friday Music Blog on Chief 187 Chatter, simply type “Friday Music Blog” into the “Search” feature on the top left hand corner of this page.
I hope you can all join me again on Monday for another brand new week of original posts! The Monday Movie Blog, upon completing the alphabetical journey started in January, will offer an entirely new topic so please check back for that!
Today’s focus is your five favorite songs RIGHT NOW! What songs are on heavy rotation in your iPod, constantly on your mind, and get turned up loudly when they come on the radio? Please list the song name as well as the artist who performs it.
Please check back with this post throughout the day and weekend to see what new selections were added. If you are curious to see what other topics have been tackled on the Friday Music Blog on Chief 187 Chatter, simply type “Friday Music Blog” into the “Search” feature on the top left hand corner of this page.
I hope you can all join me again on Monday for another brand new week of original posts! The Monday Movie Blog, upon completing the alphabetical journey started in January, will offer an entirely new topic so please check back for that!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Tantalizing Thursday
Welcome to Tantalizing Thursday on Chief 187 Chatter. Summer has its grip in my part of the world. Even the mornings are hot and appetites are waning. In lieu of a traditional breakfast, something quick, cool, and refreshing is the order of the morning. With summer fruit in abundance offering a light, naturally sweet flavor and a punch of fiber to keep you full, a Berry Smoothie is a fast, fruity, and fantastic way to start your day!
Berry Smoothie
Recipe from http://Allrecipe.com
Ingredients:
1 cup of milk
1 cup frozen unsweetened strawberries
1 cup frozen unsweetened raspberries
3 tablespoons sugar
1 cup ice cubes
Directions:
Place the milk, berries, and sugar in a blender; cover and process until smooth. Add ice cubes; cover and process until smooth.
Yields 3 Servings.
Although this recipe calls for using frozen berries it is advisable to use fresh when they are in season, simply adjust the ratio of berry to sugar to ice as needed. Serve this on the run before work, to the kids before school or camp, or as a pick-me-up in the afternoon. Try the recipe with other fresh or frozen fruits and by adding yogurt to up the calcium and richness factors.
Let me know if you tried this recipe and how you liked it. If you are looking for any other recipes featured on Chief 187 Chatter, simply type “Tantalizing Thursday” into the “Search” field in the upper left hand corner of this page.
I invite you to return tomorrow for the Friday Music Blog, a favorite way to end the week!
Berry Smoothie
Recipe from http://Allrecipe.com
Ingredients:
1 cup of milk
1 cup frozen unsweetened strawberries
1 cup frozen unsweetened raspberries
3 tablespoons sugar
1 cup ice cubes
Directions:
Place the milk, berries, and sugar in a blender; cover and process until smooth. Add ice cubes; cover and process until smooth.
Yields 3 Servings.
Although this recipe calls for using frozen berries it is advisable to use fresh when they are in season, simply adjust the ratio of berry to sugar to ice as needed. Serve this on the run before work, to the kids before school or camp, or as a pick-me-up in the afternoon. Try the recipe with other fresh or frozen fruits and by adding yogurt to up the calcium and richness factors.
Let me know if you tried this recipe and how you liked it. If you are looking for any other recipes featured on Chief 187 Chatter, simply type “Tantalizing Thursday” into the “Search” field in the upper left hand corner of this page.
I invite you to return tomorrow for the Friday Music Blog, a favorite way to end the week!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
"Notorious" Nick Newell
From the surface it appears Nick Newell lives his life single-handedly. His young mother raised him single-handedly, as she and Nick's father separated early in Nick's life. Nick Newell was born with a single hand due to congenital amputation. But upon closer inspection Nick Newell actually has a village surrounding him, lifting him up, supporting him, and watching him conquer the world like any two-handed person can do, only better in his case. This is Nick Newell’s story.
Never having two hands, Nick Newell’s life is no more difficult than most. And, after the initial questions surrounding his one handedness, I forgot that had anything to do with who Nick Newell is. Born in Milford, Connecticut to “young parents”, Nick Newell arrived with one hand. For some families this would have been devastating, but to Nick’s mother, it was what it was. She always encouraged Nick to pursue his dreams and, when he became hesitant to try something new, she would tell him to “Man up”. Nick Newell admits, “I wouldn’t be where I am today without my mom.” In fact, it was Nick’s mother who wanted him to try out for wrestling. Unsure at first, this athlete, comfortable playing everything from soccer to basketball and most sports in between, gave it a shot. In Nick Newell’s world, “Wrestling is hard and fun. I was a WWE fan growing up, but it was wrestling at the high school and college level that was great. I believe every kid should do wrestling, it is the best foundation!” Nick Newell was All-State in high school with several other accolades to his credit. In college, while rooming with a guy who eventually went on to a career in the WWE, Nick’s television was constantly on Spike for the WWE coverage. Directly before that program began, The Ultimate Fighter came on and Nick became interested in MMA. “It was the coolest thing I ever saw in my life!” Nick said exuberantly. Within a month Nick Newell was training, commencing his career in MMA.
Fights came, but sporadically. Many fighters backed out by weigh-in or on the day of the fight. They were afraid of what fighting would do to their career; if they won they beat a one-handed man and if they lost they lost to a one-handed man. Eventually, though, true competitors stepped into the cage with Nick Newell. Self-described as “humble, not cocky or arrogant”, Nick Newell admits, “My heart is in fighting, my dreams. I am fully dedicated to this.” And, although he stands with a current record of 5-0, Nick Newell realizes he could always get his “ass kicked”, but responds, “That’s my right. And if somebody has a problem with me fighting, no one makes them watch.” Nick continues, “I train harder than most. You’ve got to know everything to be good. If your goals are not to be the best, then you are in the wrong sport.”
Still a kid at heart who lives at home and loves his family, Nick Newell doesn’t take life too seriously. He likes to “goof off” and explains, “Fighting is fun. Before a match I stay relaxed, warm up, get loose, stretch, go over techniques, and joke around and have fun with my friends. My friends are all cool guys. I’ve had many of my friends since Kindergarten.” One friend he met in college, Abi Mestre, however, lost his life in a motorcycle accident earlier this year. Mestre was “like a brother to me.” Nick will never forget about him and relayed that Mestre was someone, “everyone loved. He was a fantastic person and a fighter. He was a great person. It makes me sad and I miss him a lot.”
Regarding fighting Nick also indicated that he is, “…not scared of anyone. I practice all sorts of situations so I’m ready when I enter the cage.” Nick feels trash talking his opponents is unnecessary and he generally likes his competitors for the most part. He simply stated, “Like you or not I’m still going to beat you up!” Nick sums up his fight style and his current win streak by philosophizing, “Nobody is unstoppable. I have a lot of heart; I go for the finish.”
Nick Newell is a nice guy who helps other people. He recently returned from a visit to Walter Reed Hospital to talk to amputees as well as a trip to Nebraska where he talked at length with David Stefan who has a disability and is also interested in a career in MMA. But mostly Nick spends his time with his friends, his girlfriend, his mom, and at work. He works five days a week, trains 6 days, and on his days off, travels to Springfield, Massachusetts from his home in Connecticut to train intensely with his coach. Nick says the misconceptions he finds many have about MMA is that they are unaware of the many techniques and body mechanics employed. Nick shared, “It is the hardest sport. There are so many different styles, so much to know. It is a scientific sport and deserves respect.” He feels the sport will continue to grow. As for his own career, Nick Newell simply wants to get some fights close to home as he usually travels around New England for his matches. Ultimately he’s looking at a title shot for Cage Titans and is not picky about his opponents; he’ll fight anyone. The end goal is to fight in UFC. He would certainly jump at a chance to appear in The Ultimate Fighter, as “it is the gateway to the UFC.”
Loyal, dedicated, and savvy, Nick Newell was sure to include shout outs to all who support and help him. He started by thanking “my friends and family because without their support I wouldn’t be doing this.” Next he mentioned Fighting Arts Academy, his main team, and specifically Jeremy Libiszewski and his whole family, for “taking me in”. “They give me my game plans; Jeremy is the boss. I have the best coaches around.” Next Nick spoke about Crossfit Concept in Orange, Connecticut run by Louis Figueroa who works with Nick on strength and conditioning. Nick also listed Ultimate MMA in North Haven, Connecticut, C3 Athletics in Stanford, Connecticut located near his work, Wnec Wrestling, and Jonathan Law Wrestling where Nick got his start. Finally Nick added Fight It Out Clothing and Tap Out Cancer, a charity he affiliates himself.
Nick Newell enters one’s mind as a novelty, the one-handed cage fighter in MMA. But that quickly fades within moments of talking to him or watching him fight. Nick is passionate, focused, capable, nearly unstoppable, and will not be denied anything in life. He is not disabled; he is, in fact, more “abled” than most. There is nothing Nick Newell does single-handedly except win.
Never having two hands, Nick Newell’s life is no more difficult than most. And, after the initial questions surrounding his one handedness, I forgot that had anything to do with who Nick Newell is. Born in Milford, Connecticut to “young parents”, Nick Newell arrived with one hand. For some families this would have been devastating, but to Nick’s mother, it was what it was. She always encouraged Nick to pursue his dreams and, when he became hesitant to try something new, she would tell him to “Man up”. Nick Newell admits, “I wouldn’t be where I am today without my mom.” In fact, it was Nick’s mother who wanted him to try out for wrestling. Unsure at first, this athlete, comfortable playing everything from soccer to basketball and most sports in between, gave it a shot. In Nick Newell’s world, “Wrestling is hard and fun. I was a WWE fan growing up, but it was wrestling at the high school and college level that was great. I believe every kid should do wrestling, it is the best foundation!” Nick Newell was All-State in high school with several other accolades to his credit. In college, while rooming with a guy who eventually went on to a career in the WWE, Nick’s television was constantly on Spike for the WWE coverage. Directly before that program began, The Ultimate Fighter came on and Nick became interested in MMA. “It was the coolest thing I ever saw in my life!” Nick said exuberantly. Within a month Nick Newell was training, commencing his career in MMA.
Fights came, but sporadically. Many fighters backed out by weigh-in or on the day of the fight. They were afraid of what fighting would do to their career; if they won they beat a one-handed man and if they lost they lost to a one-handed man. Eventually, though, true competitors stepped into the cage with Nick Newell. Self-described as “humble, not cocky or arrogant”, Nick Newell admits, “My heart is in fighting, my dreams. I am fully dedicated to this.” And, although he stands with a current record of 5-0, Nick Newell realizes he could always get his “ass kicked”, but responds, “That’s my right. And if somebody has a problem with me fighting, no one makes them watch.” Nick continues, “I train harder than most. You’ve got to know everything to be good. If your goals are not to be the best, then you are in the wrong sport.”
Still a kid at heart who lives at home and loves his family, Nick Newell doesn’t take life too seriously. He likes to “goof off” and explains, “Fighting is fun. Before a match I stay relaxed, warm up, get loose, stretch, go over techniques, and joke around and have fun with my friends. My friends are all cool guys. I’ve had many of my friends since Kindergarten.” One friend he met in college, Abi Mestre, however, lost his life in a motorcycle accident earlier this year. Mestre was “like a brother to me.” Nick will never forget about him and relayed that Mestre was someone, “everyone loved. He was a fantastic person and a fighter. He was a great person. It makes me sad and I miss him a lot.”
Regarding fighting Nick also indicated that he is, “…not scared of anyone. I practice all sorts of situations so I’m ready when I enter the cage.” Nick feels trash talking his opponents is unnecessary and he generally likes his competitors for the most part. He simply stated, “Like you or not I’m still going to beat you up!” Nick sums up his fight style and his current win streak by philosophizing, “Nobody is unstoppable. I have a lot of heart; I go for the finish.”
Nick Newell is a nice guy who helps other people. He recently returned from a visit to Walter Reed Hospital to talk to amputees as well as a trip to Nebraska where he talked at length with David Stefan who has a disability and is also interested in a career in MMA. But mostly Nick spends his time with his friends, his girlfriend, his mom, and at work. He works five days a week, trains 6 days, and on his days off, travels to Springfield, Massachusetts from his home in Connecticut to train intensely with his coach. Nick says the misconceptions he finds many have about MMA is that they are unaware of the many techniques and body mechanics employed. Nick shared, “It is the hardest sport. There are so many different styles, so much to know. It is a scientific sport and deserves respect.” He feels the sport will continue to grow. As for his own career, Nick Newell simply wants to get some fights close to home as he usually travels around New England for his matches. Ultimately he’s looking at a title shot for Cage Titans and is not picky about his opponents; he’ll fight anyone. The end goal is to fight in UFC. He would certainly jump at a chance to appear in The Ultimate Fighter, as “it is the gateway to the UFC.”
Loyal, dedicated, and savvy, Nick Newell was sure to include shout outs to all who support and help him. He started by thanking “my friends and family because without their support I wouldn’t be doing this.” Next he mentioned Fighting Arts Academy, his main team, and specifically Jeremy Libiszewski and his whole family, for “taking me in”. “They give me my game plans; Jeremy is the boss. I have the best coaches around.” Next Nick spoke about Crossfit Concept in Orange, Connecticut run by Louis Figueroa who works with Nick on strength and conditioning. Nick also listed Ultimate MMA in North Haven, Connecticut, C3 Athletics in Stanford, Connecticut located near his work, Wnec Wrestling, and Jonathan Law Wrestling where Nick got his start. Finally Nick added Fight It Out Clothing and Tap Out Cancer, a charity he affiliates himself.
Nick Newell enters one’s mind as a novelty, the one-handed cage fighter in MMA. But that quickly fades within moments of talking to him or watching him fight. Nick is passionate, focused, capable, nearly unstoppable, and will not be denied anything in life. He is not disabled; he is, in fact, more “abled” than most. There is nothing Nick Newell does single-handedly except win.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Simple Joys
Moods, relationships, and life have an ebb and flow. We are bound to have off days, weeks, even years. It is difficult to navigate these times and not feel frustrated, ashamed, lost, and defeated. But, by opening yourself to pleasure, even for a few minutes here and there, and recognizing that these times do exist, you are on the path to finding your Simple Joys. An unexpected laugh, a peaceful feeling, a much-needed hug, handhold, or back pat are all Simple Joys. Enjoying a sunny day, rainy evening, fireworks, time alone, a good book, or a favorite television show all qualify as Simple Joys. They are all around; it becomes easier the more you open yourself to Simple Joys, the more you notice them around you and you are able to partake. Since writing Simple Joys low these many months, my life gets exponentially better because I am opening my life to more and more Simple Joys. It can work for you, too. It’s not about money, station in life, or opportunity, it’s simply about letting in the goodness that exists all around. Now, without further ado, is this week’s Simple Joys.
Bike Riding. My oldest son who gets a lot of mentions in Chief 187 Chatter, had several goals to achieve before his ninth birthday which occurs in August. Top on the list is learning to ride his bike without training wheels. We live in an area with no real flat areas or safe bicycle trails, consequently he’s ridden around our larger driveway for years using his training wheels. This summer we all vowed would be his last doing this. The first day trying was difficult and frustrating resulting in a bad spill that saw his beloved horn, a gift from his grandparents, broken off his bike. He made some progress, but the mosquitoes who feasted on my son had a better night. The next afternoon, however, my son tried again. He was a bit apprehensive yet still determined to succeed! My husband, a champion with patience in this situation, coaxed our son to trust in his father’s grip of his seat so he could concentrate on moving his body correctly while turning. After many minutes our son got the hang of riding, trusting his father was holding the seat behind him. Eventually, unbeknownst to our son, my husband let go, keeping a very safe two inch space from his hand to our son’s seat, but still not touching the bike. Only after our son stopped did we tell him jubilantly that he was riding unaided! He was overjoyed and so emotional, as we all were. There is still more work to be done, practice to endure, and confidence to build, but our son took his first steps… ride into independence; a very huge Simple Joy for all of us!
Library. With school out for summer, we look for activities that are reasonable (read free) that occupy our time constructively and entertain as well. A trip to the library is a perfect way to fulfill those goals! A recent trip to our local library yielded four books, two Wii video games, and a movie all for … FREE! And the best part is, when we are done with these treasures, we return them and the choosing begins again. Having a wonderful library to visit and borrow from is a much appreciated Simple Joy!
4th of July Fireworks. Growing up I was so lucky to experience a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, the largest lake in my great state. A Yacht Club organizes and foots the bill for the public display. Boats from all around gather in the main part of the lake, wait for nightfall, and ooh and ahh over the amazing show. They honk their horns enthusiastically when they see a particularly beautiful firework go off. Seeing fireworks on the lake was always the highlight of the 4th of July weekend. In recent years I have missed many of these displays because I have had babies, too young to stay out late. But, as my sons get older I happily send them to their grandparents, the ones who live on the lake, to take the boat ride to witness the gorgeous show. I get a bit sad and envious that I am unable to see the event, but deep down I am tickled to have them enjoy an experience that I did for years and will again once my baby grows up. Knowing they are taking part in a phenomenal 4th of July fireworks display is a time-honored Simple Joy!
100 Fans/16000 pageviews. Recently the Fans Page my husband started for me as a lark on Facebook reached over 100 fans! I couldn’t believe it! When I scroll through the list I am cheered by how many friends, both on and offline, became fans. It fascinates how many names I don’t know who jumped on the Chief 187 bandwagon! My “Like” page on FB is nearing the 100 mark. Finally, Chief 187 Chatter reached and surpassed the 16000 pageview late last week and is already on its way to 17000! To some these numbers are small potatoes and not worthy of note. To me, these numbers reflect love, loyalty, friendship and support as well as my hard work throughout the months since I started my career in earnest. I am cheered, encouraged, always humbled, and thrilled by your response to me, and excitedly look to the future to be able to continue to serve and entertain you. Writing for me and you is an all-encompassing Simple Joy!
These Simple Joys are obviously mine. I always encourage you to share yours and look forward to reading them. Even if you are against posting them publicly, at least I hope you are inspired to write yours down or think of them if nothing else! Simple Joys are a powerful way to add a positive cast to your life and they truly do grow exponentially once you let them. Wishing you all Simple Joys!
Please join me tomorrow for another all new and original post on Chief 187 Chatter! Thank you for spending some time with me.
Bike Riding. My oldest son who gets a lot of mentions in Chief 187 Chatter, had several goals to achieve before his ninth birthday which occurs in August. Top on the list is learning to ride his bike without training wheels. We live in an area with no real flat areas or safe bicycle trails, consequently he’s ridden around our larger driveway for years using his training wheels. This summer we all vowed would be his last doing this. The first day trying was difficult and frustrating resulting in a bad spill that saw his beloved horn, a gift from his grandparents, broken off his bike. He made some progress, but the mosquitoes who feasted on my son had a better night. The next afternoon, however, my son tried again. He was a bit apprehensive yet still determined to succeed! My husband, a champion with patience in this situation, coaxed our son to trust in his father’s grip of his seat so he could concentrate on moving his body correctly while turning. After many minutes our son got the hang of riding, trusting his father was holding the seat behind him. Eventually, unbeknownst to our son, my husband let go, keeping a very safe two inch space from his hand to our son’s seat, but still not touching the bike. Only after our son stopped did we tell him jubilantly that he was riding unaided! He was overjoyed and so emotional, as we all were. There is still more work to be done, practice to endure, and confidence to build, but our son took his first steps… ride into independence; a very huge Simple Joy for all of us!
Library. With school out for summer, we look for activities that are reasonable (read free) that occupy our time constructively and entertain as well. A trip to the library is a perfect way to fulfill those goals! A recent trip to our local library yielded four books, two Wii video games, and a movie all for … FREE! And the best part is, when we are done with these treasures, we return them and the choosing begins again. Having a wonderful library to visit and borrow from is a much appreciated Simple Joy!
4th of July Fireworks. Growing up I was so lucky to experience a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, the largest lake in my great state. A Yacht Club organizes and foots the bill for the public display. Boats from all around gather in the main part of the lake, wait for nightfall, and ooh and ahh over the amazing show. They honk their horns enthusiastically when they see a particularly beautiful firework go off. Seeing fireworks on the lake was always the highlight of the 4th of July weekend. In recent years I have missed many of these displays because I have had babies, too young to stay out late. But, as my sons get older I happily send them to their grandparents, the ones who live on the lake, to take the boat ride to witness the gorgeous show. I get a bit sad and envious that I am unable to see the event, but deep down I am tickled to have them enjoy an experience that I did for years and will again once my baby grows up. Knowing they are taking part in a phenomenal 4th of July fireworks display is a time-honored Simple Joy!
100 Fans/16000 pageviews. Recently the Fans Page my husband started for me as a lark on Facebook reached over 100 fans! I couldn’t believe it! When I scroll through the list I am cheered by how many friends, both on and offline, became fans. It fascinates how many names I don’t know who jumped on the Chief 187 bandwagon! My “Like” page on FB is nearing the 100 mark. Finally, Chief 187 Chatter reached and surpassed the 16000 pageview late last week and is already on its way to 17000! To some these numbers are small potatoes and not worthy of note. To me, these numbers reflect love, loyalty, friendship and support as well as my hard work throughout the months since I started my career in earnest. I am cheered, encouraged, always humbled, and thrilled by your response to me, and excitedly look to the future to be able to continue to serve and entertain you. Writing for me and you is an all-encompassing Simple Joy!
These Simple Joys are obviously mine. I always encourage you to share yours and look forward to reading them. Even if you are against posting them publicly, at least I hope you are inspired to write yours down or think of them if nothing else! Simple Joys are a powerful way to add a positive cast to your life and they truly do grow exponentially once you let them. Wishing you all Simple Joys!
Please join me tomorrow for another all new and original post on Chief 187 Chatter! Thank you for spending some time with me.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Monday Movie Blog
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Welcome in to a special edition Monday Movie Blog on this July 4th! For the final time the alphabetical odyssey we began back in January will be played out here. Six months of listing our favorite movies in alphabetical order culminates with today’s entry. We are left with a wonderful resource for all to share and continue to add to as the month and years unfold.
Today’s focus is movies that begin with the letter “Z”. List any and all movies that begin with the letter “Z” while also including the stars of the film and a brief synopsis or review. To access any archived Monday Movie Blogs on Chief 187 Chatter, simply type “Monday Movie Blog” into the “Search” function in the upper left hand corner of this page.
As it is July 4th, I also want to highlight the entry of Monday, May 30th (Memorial Day) when the Monday Movie Blog also featured favorite patriotic/war movies. The address for that blog is http://chief187.blogspot.com/2011/05/monday-movie-blog_30.html (copy and paste into the URL).
Wishing you all a very Happy Birthday to our Beloved Country, the United States of America! Please join me tomorrow for the most uplifting post of the week, Simple Joys!
Welcome in to a special edition Monday Movie Blog on this July 4th! For the final time the alphabetical odyssey we began back in January will be played out here. Six months of listing our favorite movies in alphabetical order culminates with today’s entry. We are left with a wonderful resource for all to share and continue to add to as the month and years unfold.
Today’s focus is movies that begin with the letter “Z”. List any and all movies that begin with the letter “Z” while also including the stars of the film and a brief synopsis or review. To access any archived Monday Movie Blogs on Chief 187 Chatter, simply type “Monday Movie Blog” into the “Search” function in the upper left hand corner of this page.
As it is July 4th, I also want to highlight the entry of Monday, May 30th (Memorial Day) when the Monday Movie Blog also featured favorite patriotic/war movies. The address for that blog is http://chief187.blogspot.com/2011/05/monday-movie-blog_30.html (copy and paste into the URL).
Wishing you all a very Happy Birthday to our Beloved Country, the United States of America! Please join me tomorrow for the most uplifting post of the week, Simple Joys!
Friday, July 1, 2011
Friday Music Blog
Welcome in to the Friday Music Blog on Chief 187 Chatter. As the Independence Day Weekend is upon us, my thoughts turned to all things American. Rock-N-Roll, an American creation, is always in the forefront of my mind. I grew up on Rock, still appreciate it, and love to expose my children to it!
This week’s focus is great American Rock Songs. Whatever you categorize as the songs that are performed by American acts and are anthems of sorts is what I’m after. The only criterion is the music listed by you is written/performed by American bands/performers. I am anxiously awaiting your replies!
I wish you all a very Happy 4th of July Weekend! A huge thank you to all of the men and women who serve our great country, a shout out to our forefathers who set this awesome country into motion, and to my brothers and sisters who work tirelessly to keep this fantastic country a most desirable place to live, worship, speak, and just be. God Bless America! Happy Birthday, America!!
Please remember to carve out a few minutes on Monday, July 4th, to visit Chief 187 Chatter for the Monday Movie Blog. It will be all-new. Thank you for your continued support. Be safe and enjoy!
This week’s focus is great American Rock Songs. Whatever you categorize as the songs that are performed by American acts and are anthems of sorts is what I’m after. The only criterion is the music listed by you is written/performed by American bands/performers. I am anxiously awaiting your replies!
I wish you all a very Happy 4th of July Weekend! A huge thank you to all of the men and women who serve our great country, a shout out to our forefathers who set this awesome country into motion, and to my brothers and sisters who work tirelessly to keep this fantastic country a most desirable place to live, worship, speak, and just be. God Bless America! Happy Birthday, America!!
Please remember to carve out a few minutes on Monday, July 4th, to visit Chief 187 Chatter for the Monday Movie Blog. It will be all-new. Thank you for your continued support. Be safe and enjoy!
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