That was a close one…

Daily writing prompt
Write about your most epic baking or cooking fail.

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Once upon a time, in a country other than my own, a few of us decided we were going to cook an American Thanksgiving dinner. There were six of us, four men and two women. I must admit the women tried to talk us out of this idea of ours but weren’t hearing any of that nonsense. All six of us were experts in several fields. How hard could preparing a meal be? The women quickly declared they wouldn’t have anything to do with the pending disaster. Intelligent women, I always liked them.

We started cooking a few days before Thanksgiving, and things seemed to be going well. We knocked out almost all the side dishes and started on the desserts. However, a few things occurred that started to make me nervous. We had begun improvising when we ran out of spices and stuff. However, we forged forward. In the back of my mind, I secretly hoped our female counterparts would ride in and save the day. However, they were a no-show.

The meal was complete, and the phone calls were made for people to join us. No one showed. I know this seems sad but this was, actually a good thing. The food was horrible. We were just about order pizzas when the doorbell rang. Our female counterparts had made dinner for us. That was a close one.

Wordless Wednesday – 09182024

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGE – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

REBLOG: An another interesting post from Reddit

I found this on Reddit and laughed my butt off. Once I saw it, I couldn’t unsee it. What are your thoughts???

My Happy Place

Daily writing prompt
How do you relax?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’m not sure if I know what the word really means. I know the definition and how it’s used, but I haven’t been able to relax for most of my life. I’ve always had a vivid imagination, so I tend to retreat inside my mind when I need to take a break. However, you can probably see the problem with this technique. As a writer, I think of various scenes in my mind. I can tell you many of them aren’t rather relaxing. I discussed the concept of relaxation with my editor, and she laughed. When she regained her composure, she provided me some advice. She talked about the avenues of my creative expression and how I should not create content for my blog, portfolio, or anything else I’m into. So, I thought about the places that make me happy.

Here’s what I came up with:

I’ve always found gardening really relaxing, so I can imagine my idea of relaxation involving some sort of garden. I’d have to keep my brain out of it, though. I can see myself trying to figure out the soil composition to plan which flowers grew best in my region.


I’ve also felt at home in the mountains.


However, the activity requiring the least amount of preparation is reading.

Within the pages of a book, I imagine different lands, worlds, and periods of time. After which, a nap is appropriate.

Wordless Wednesday – 09112024

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGE – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

REBLOG: An interesting post from Reddit

I found this post on Reddit. I remember these things. I thought I was a soldier on the U.S.S. Enterprise

Ear Infections suck!

Daily writing prompt
What are you doing this evening?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I don’t remember ever having an ear infection when I was young. I’ve dealt with them in regard to the children and grandchildren. Imagine my surprise when my doctor told me I had infections in both ears. Of course, I looked at her as if she had lost her mind, but she held her ground, and I walked out of the office, pouting a little. You see, I’m supposed to be at a concert at this very moment, but no, I’m at home dealing with this imaginary spike in both my ears. I say imaginary because when I look into the mirror, I don’t see anything. So, excuse me while I spray stuff in my nose and take my other meds. Ear infections suck!

Macro Monday – 09092024

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGES – COLOR

I’ve always been a fan of macro photography, but I haven’t been any good at it. However, I keep working at it. Honestly, it’s pretty fun. Here are a few images I generated this week.

Do I have to?

Daily writing prompt
If you had to give up one word that you use regularly, what would it be?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’m secure with my current lexicon. Typically, I don’t use any word or phrase more than necessary. However, people may find several phrases or words a bit abrasive. I keep that in mind when I talk to them. Now, I promised my late Madre that I would be a good boy, but there are times when I slip up. So, I’m not comfortable removing any words or phrases from rotation.

I suppose I could come up with a proper list, but do I have to?

Late Night Grooves #108

Tonight on LNG, we are resuming the theme from last week, which was TV theme songs. Tonight, we are featuring a classic from the legend Quincy Jones. Quincy Jones started as a jazz trumpeter but transitioned to composing and producing. The TV theme of the night is from Sanford & Son. Sanford & Son will as be one of my favorite television programs. I still laugh at the antics of Fred and Lamont.

Sanford and Son‘s theme is a funky, upbeat instrumental piece called “The Streetbeater.” Its lively rhythm, driven by brass and percussion, perfectly matches the show’s comedic tone. The theme reflects the series’s vibrant, often chaotic world, which follows Fred Sanford, a junk dealer, and his son, Lamont, as they navigate life and business in a working-class neighborhood.

Wordless Wednesday – 09042024

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGE – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Pecan Pie and Big F**king Animals

Daily writing prompt
Share a story about the furthest you’ve ever traveled from home.

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

This story isn’t about the furthest I’ve been from home but about a story that rocked my idea of how the world worked. Being raised in the Midwest, wildlife consisted of deer and such—everything we read about in books or saw on television. As I got older, I ran into wolves, bears, and mountain lions. How cool is that? It was pretty cool as a kid who grew up around asphalt and concrete.

One of my road trips involved driving a semi through the Northwest, Wyoming, and Montana. I had never seen such open space and beauty combined. It was absolutely breathtaking. There was good food, pleasant people, and fresh air. The silence was disturbing at first. I adjusted and enjoyed the drive. I caught a glance of my passenger window to see wild horses running. It freaked me out. I might even been a little giddy.

I spent some time in Montana, during which I had an opportunity to drive through Lulu Pass, Montana. The winding road made the drive challenging. I noticed an animal in the road, and I honked at it so it would clear the road. However, no one had told me that the air horn could piss off the wildlife. I didn’t find that out until later. So, I was on the road watching an enormous animal walk toward my truck. I was driving a cab over, so I sat higher than a typical semi. As the animal got closer, it looked like a moose, but later, I was told it was probably a Yak or Caribou or something.

The damn was tall enough to look into the cab of my truck. This animal stopped and looked directly at me. I’ve seen some hairy things in my day, but this unnerved me a bit. So, I sat there until the animal decided to move along. I waited for this moment for about an hour. Later, I was eating at a local diner and told the story; the locals told me I was lucky I didn’t get rammed and gave me a piece of pecan pie.

Boob Tube: Chronicles of a Misspent Youth

Daily writing prompt
What TV shows did you watch as a kid?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Lately, I’ve gotten into the habit of overthinking each of the challenges I usually participate in here on WordPress. So, when I read this challenge, I decided to explore all the television programs I could remember from my youth. I used AI to assist with this project, and of course, AI started repeating television shows. So, I had to rely on my memory. So, here are the television shows I can remember watching as a kid. This list only includes only the television shows that I enjoyed.

1. All in the Family (1971–1979)

2. M*A*S*H (1972–1983)

3. Hawaii Five-O (1968–1980)

4. Happy Days (1974–1984)

5. Laverne & Shirley (1976–1983)

6. The White Shadow (1978–1981)

7. Sanford and Son (1972–1977)

8. The Streets of San Francisco (1972–1977)

9. Charlie’s Angels (1976–1981)

10. The Love Boat (1977–1987)

11. The Six Million Dollar Man (1974–1978)

12. The Bionic Woman (1976–1978)

13. Columbo (1971–2003)

14. The Jeffersons (1975–1985)

15. Good Times (1974–1979)

16. Kojak (1973–1978)

17. Starsky & Hutch (1975–1979)

18. Wonder Woman (1975–1979)

19. Taxi (1978–1983)

20. What’s Happening!! (1976 – 1979)

21. WKRP in Cincinnati (1978–1982)

22. Welcome Back, Kotter (1975–1979)

23. Fantasy Island (1977–1984)

24. Barnaby Jones (1973–1980)

25. Three’s Company (1977 – 1984)

26. Barney Miller (1975–1982)

27. The Rockford Files (1974–1980)

28. Chico and the Man (1974–1978)

29. Get Smart (1965–1970)

30. Soap (1977–1981)

31. Quincy, M.E. (1976–1983)

32. The Mod Squad (1968–1973)

33. McMillan & Wife (1971–1977)

34. Bonanza (1959–1973)

35. The Beverly Hillbillies (1962–1971)

36. The Night Stalker (1974–1975)

37. Maude (1972–1978)

38. Police Woman (1974–1978)

39. One Day at a Time (1975–1984)

40. Room 222 (1969–1974)

41. Ironside (1967–1975)

42. Mission: Impossible (1966–1973)

43. Gunsmoke (1955–1975)

44. S.W.A.T. (1975–1976)

45. Rhoda (1974–1978)

46. Baretta (1975–1978)

47. The Paper Chase (1978–1979)

48. Rawhide (1959 – 1965)

49. Magnum P.I. (1980 – 1988)

50. Airwolf (1984 – 1987)

I only listed 50 shows; I figured that was enough. I actually got close to nearly 75 shows. I think this is as much a memory exercise as anything else. It was fun reminiscing about my youth. One thing that occurred to me was that I watched too much television.

Macro Monday – 09022024

Last week, I worked on putting things inside glass spheres—my version of the ship in the bottle. Here’s what I came up with.

Late Night Grooves – Concert Edition

Tonight on LNG, we are going to try something a little different. The concert crew has drug me out the house for my first show of the year. To see one of my favorite bands of the new stuff. They didn’t listen to my usual excuses for not going.

So, the band playing is Badflower. I got a special treat with Des Roc, which is one of the biggest surprises of last year before i got ill. Des Roc is out of New York, a piece band with a big sound.

Here is some live footage:

Des Roc jamming

Uploading video over my cellular network is slow.

This is the opening band for Badflower. Stay tuned for the next post featuring Badflower.

Late Night Grooves #107

Tonight’s theme song comes from the long-running Soap Opera General Hospital. I was living in Germany and brought home a new CD by a jazz artist I had never heard of. While listening to the CD in my study my wife came in, excited about a track playing. Then she explained why.

“Faces of the Heart” is a smooth jazz instrumental piece by saxophonist Dave Koz. Released in 1993, it was the theme song for the long-running American daytime television drama “General Hospital.” The track is characterized by its emotive saxophone melodies. It has become one of Koz’s signature pieces, blending a mellow, romantic vibe with a sense of drama, making it a memorable and recognizable tune for jazz fans and the TV show.


Amused

Daily writing prompt
How are you feeling right now?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Today, I got a wild hair up my buttocks and decided to reorganize my office. I didn’t want to reorganize; I needed to relabel all my containers and plastic bins. Plastic bins are evil, just in case you didn’t know. Putting something in a large bin to store somewhere is probably a good sign that you don’t need it. However, we need to have a bunch of stuff we don’t need. I’m sure some therapists would have some fancy word for this behavior. I’m sure they could tell you exactly what it is, right after they find their notes tucked away in one of those bins from medical school.

As I continue to clean up my office and get things in order, I discover I’m making more of a mess. So, I sit here amused as I write this post. I’m a little worn out as well, but as look around and it looks like I haven’t done a damn thing. I’m just amused with myself.

Retirement is Sweet

Daily writing prompt
What daily habit do you do that improves your quality of life?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Since I retired, I’ve been trying to figure out what I’m doing with myself most days. However, I have developed a few new habits. For some reason, I suddenly felt it was important to do self-care. When I was a young man, you were supposed to be based on the principle of good single malt and bad decisions. However, I try to eat better and enjoy the things I didn’t do when I was young.

Recently, I returned to creating art. I figured that part of my life was over since I hadn’t explored it in decades. So, every day, I brew a pot of coffee and start working on creating something. It doesn’t matter to me which avenue I decide to explore. Lately, I have been sketching out ideas for the creations I’m trying to render. Frequently, I start with character development and work on their backstories. I work until I get worn out and then nap. Napping is a new daily habit.

At the end of the day, I feel good if I have created something.

Late Night Grooves #106

Tonight on LNG, we are continuing with the TV theme songs. One of my favorites is the one from Barney Miller. I searched for years to buy the CD, but never found enough information. What I did see were several covers of the track. All of the covers were actually pretty good, but I still wanted to know the origin of this track. Even trying to find a video for this post was difficult.

The theme song to “Barney Miller” is a distinctive jazz-funk instrumental composed by Jack Elliott and Allyn Ferguson. It features a catchy bassline that sets a laid-back yet rhythmic tone, perfectly reflecting the show’s blend of humor and the everyday challenges faced by a New York City police precinct. The theme’s groove became iconic, capturing the essence of the 1970s era in which the show was set.

Cast of Musicians

Jack Elliot – Co-Composer

Allyn Ferguson – Co-Composer and Pianist

Dan Ferguson – Guitarist

Paul Humphrey – Drummer

Chuck Findley – Trumpeter

Chuck Berghofer – Bass Player

Wordless Wednesday – 08282024

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGE – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

The Usual

Daily writing prompt
What was the last thing you searched for online? Why were you looking for it?

DAILY CHALLENGE-RESPONSE

Typically, I only look up the same stuff all the time. My search history is pretty boring. I research the following:

  • Music
  • History
  • Books

Today, I’ve been working on Samurai warriors. I’ve been creating a tribe of female samurai warriors for a story. I’m unsure how I will use them in the story. I’ve considered setting the time period during feudal Japan. However, using the code in a modern setting would also be interesting. Because I tend to dive deep into character development and create a back story of the tribe, I’ve made several character mockups using text-to-image generation.



I attempted to be authentic in these initial renderings. I won’t be sure until I do more research. However, I think these renderings came out well.

Late Night Grooves #105

This week on LNG, we will feature TV theme songs. These songs are as much a part of culture as baseball and apple pie. Each generation uses its own genre of music in these shows. Tonight, I’m going to feature one of my favorites.

“Angela,” composed by Bob James, is a smooth jazz instrumental that gained popularity as the theme song for the TV show Taxi. Released in 1978 on Bob James’ album Touchdown, the song features a laid-back, mellow melody with a prominent piano line, characteristic of James’ style. The composition evokes a sense of calm and introspection, making it a standout piece in the smooth jazz genre and a recognizable tune for show fans. Its relaxed tempo and gentle harmonies have made it a timeless piece, often associated with nostalgia.


It’s Just Something about it

Daily writing prompt
What’s your favorite time of day?

DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

I’ve always enjoyed the part of the day when it seems the world is still asleep. Nothing is stirring; it is just quiet. Today, silence is a commodity. We need to have something going all the time. We can’t seem to be still. I’m no better; I have something going on all the time. Yet, sometimes, right before dawn, I sit outside and listen to the soundscape. The crickets chirping. The rustle of the grass as a stray cat moves to its next hiding place. I feel them watching me. It’s okay because watching them. Sometimes, they come to visit. They lay on the porch, taking in the morning.

I was raised in the city, so I didn’t understand what it meant to be still. I’ve spent time in the desert and the woods. I know there are things that go bump in the night. They’re protecting themselves from our clumsiness, our rudeness, our carelessness, and our obliviousness. They have so much to say without uttering a word. I wonder what it would be like if we were just silent?


Chicken Marsala

Daily writing prompt
What’s your favorite recipe?

DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

One of my favorite dishes is chicken marsala. I admit I usually let someone else do the cooking, and I often find myself disappointed. So, I decided to make my own version. I’ve tried several variations to suit my palette. Here is the latest recipe I’m going to try.

Air Fryer Chicken Marsala Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup Marsala wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Special equipment needed:
– Air fryer

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and basil.
3. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and spray with cooking spray.
5. Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Marsala sauce. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
7. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic to the skillet and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and Marsala wine and bring to a simmer.
9. Cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes, or until it has reduced by half.
10. Stir in the heavy cream and parsley and cook for 2-3 minutes.
11. Serve the chicken with the Marsala sauce spooned over the top.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
Air fryer: 375°F
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 42g
Sodium: 800mg
Sugar: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
– Chicken broth: vegetable broth or water
– Marsala wine: dry white wine or sherry
– Heavy cream: half-and-half or milk
– Mushrooms: any type of mushroom or omit

Variations:
– Add diced onions to the Marsala sauce for extra flavor.
– Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
– Serve the chicken and Marsala sauce over pasta or rice.

Photo Challenge #529

CHALLENGE RESPONSE – MLMM

Last week, I noticed this photo while reading several blogs. I made a note to do something with it, but I had no idea what I was going to do at the time. I was using my iPad and had forgotten all about it. I’m doing weekly maintenance on my main system and was reading on my iPad. I found this photo … oops!

I’ve been working on double exposures with AI and wanted to see what I could do with a photo, so I used the photo from this challenge as a reference.

Original:


The Results:

Added a double exposure effect with a wolf silhouette

Double Exposure effect with a woman silhouette

Lavender Fields Forever

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGES

Here’s my response to Ragtag Daily Prompt: Lavender. I’ve always been a fan of the color lavender.



Something Blue

ART- AI GENERATED IMAGES – BLUE

Here is my response to Ragtag Daily Prompt: Blue

Here are some images I’ve been working on that primary color is blue.

FOTD – 08212024

ART – AI-GENERATED IMAGE

Here’s my response to Cee’s FOTD challenge.

I missed most of the flower season this year. So, I decided to see if I could create a decent looking one. I can’t wait for next season. Until then, I will see what I can imagine.

Wordless Wednesday – 08212024

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGE – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Wouldn’t you like to Know?

Daily writing prompt
Where did your name come from?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I looked up my name once; you know, our obsession with googling ourselves. Perhaps we find the things we have forgotten about to be nifty. More likely, we find things that we wish we could forget about. You know, like a video of a drunken you dancing ungracefully to Rod Stewart’s Do Ya Think I’m Sexy or perhaps a blog post about a soulful rendition, though sung off-key, and is remarkably similar to an experience you’ve done. Yes, the names are withheld, but there couldn’t be two jackasses commenting the same during the period.

As far as the origin of my name, I don’t have a clue. I suppose I could spin a yarn about a maiden by a brook reading a book while a doe gently drank from the brook or something. Yeah, I got nothing …

At the Movies … Mangus Edition

Daily writing prompt
What are your top ten favorite movies?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I’ve watched thousands of hours of video content throughout my lifetime, so it would be difficult to compile a list of my favorite movies. If I’m honest, the list changes from time to time. I get into moods where I watch a particular genre until I run out of movies. So, I will list a few movies that stand out.

The first five films on my list feature the legend of Sidney Poitier, and I’m a definite fan of the legend. My personal favorite is The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn. It wasn’t one of his many masterpieces, but its message is refreshing.

  • Blackboard Jungle (1955)
  • Defiant Ones (1958)
  • In the Heat of the Night (1967)
  • Piece of the Action (1977)
  • Simple Life of Noah Dearborn (1999)

These next five aren’t in any order, but I enjoy them each time I watch them. I don’t have a particular reason; I just like them.

  • Bait (2012)
  • The Conversation (1973)
  • King Arthur (2004)
  • The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
  • The Green Mile (1999)

These are some of the films that come to mind immediately. I’m sure if I thought about them a little longer, I could come up with a proper list and reasons for each film.

Here are some honorable mentions:

  • Cool Hand Luke (1967)
  • The Jacket (2005)
  • Silverado (1985)
  • The Natural (1984)
  • The Way of the Gun (2000)

Well, here is my list. Perhaps you have seen some of these and enjoyed them. There are maybe some you want to check out.

Macro Monday – 08192024

ART- AI GENERATED IMAGE

As I dived deeper into AI, I finally figured out how to compose a realistic AI macro photograph. Tell me what you think. Next month, I should be able to pick up my camera and take some shots.

Stay Tuned …

Daily writing prompt
Describe your life in an alternate universe.

DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

This prompt is too rich to answer with a quick response. As fiction writer, this prompt opens the possibility of all kinds of nifty stuff. I have to make a decision whether or not to make life better or worse. Perhaps, I could make myself charming with a wonderful sense of humor. Perhaps, I could be dashing or something. Whichever way … STAY TUNED

I’m Married the Woman who lived the house with the pretty flowers.

How would you improve your community?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

All I knew about flowers was that you gave them to a girl you were sweet on. So, when I met my future wife, I had much to learn. Now, I had no idea that I was going to marry her at the time, but strangest things, right? I spent a great deal of time in her flower garden while we were dating. I don’t know the names of flowers, but I know how deep to plant them or whether they grow in the sun or the shade. As well as how much to water them. You may be wondering what this story has to do with improving my community. Let me explain.

Throughout our marriage, my wife and I planted numerous gardens, indoor and outdoor. The indoor gardens were a challenge, but we pulled it off. Our last garden was our biggest and most challenging garden. In this garden, we planted both vegetables and flowers. Typically, we did either one or the other. However, that’s not what made this garden special. What made this garden stand out was its effect on the neighborhood.

We lived in the shady part of town and there all kinds of madness going on 24 hours a day. The people were decent enough, but no one seemed to care about anything outside their world. We were no different. It was about surviving our circumstances best way we could. My wife’s had begun to progress and one day she said she wanted a garden. I looked at her like she had finally lost her mind. There really wasn’t any place to put the garden she described. She didn’t let it go

Our backyard was nearly completely asphalt, so one morning I stood out there looking at it wondering how we were going to pull this off. I grabbed my pickaxe and went to work. It took me a week to clear the area by hand. It didn’t occur to me to rent a tiller. I just swinging that pickaxe. I tilled the soul with a rack then planted a flower right in the middle of the clearing. I went inside and took a nap in my chair. My wife woke me up and took me to the back and it started.

Over the next few weeks, I had the whole filled with flowers. Here is the interesting part, we went around town and asked people if we could get piece of their flowers. I was surprised when nearly everyone said yes. We did this every year for three years. There were a few ladies who would set aside seedlings for my wife. Others called her when they got something new. I shook my head at this, but would get into the truck and pick stuff up. My wife even nurseries on her rolodex. They’d call each year and donate a plant or two.

One night, one of my dogs alerted me to activity outside. I noticed that a few of the neighborhood yahoos were sitting in the garden. Immediately, I was ready to kick off the property. However, something strange happened. Some trash had blown in the garden, and I watched them get up and clear it up. They kept our garden free of trash. My wife passed and I moved, but for three years they maintained the garden. I received phone calls from my wife’s flower network wondering if I was going to keep things going. I declined and they understood.

Sometimes the littlest things mean so much. I guess that’s what happens when you marry the woman in the house with the pretty flowers.

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy

Daily writing prompt
What positive emotion do you feel most often?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Most days, I’m content and peaceful, neither positive or negative. However, this prompt maybe think of this skit.

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner

Daily writing prompt
If you could host a dinner and anyone you invite was sure to come, who would you invite?

DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

I don’t do dinner parties, so the prompt doesn’t apply. However, I’ll play along for the sake of something. I’m unsure what, but I’ll play anyway.

If, I do mean if I were to consider hosting a dinner party, it would have to be for some special people. So, since we are in fantasy land, I would invite some of my favorite authors. The guest list is featured below.


So, the guest list are some of my favorite authors. You probably have noticed that all of them are deceased except for one. They said they wanted a guest list. Nobody said I had to play fair

It’s Not what you think?

Daily writing prompt
What is your favorite genre of music?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

Most people I meet think my favorite genre of music is rock and roll. Based on the music I play on this blog, those reading this may be inclined to agree with that assessment. The truth is there is entirely too much music out there to be narrowed down or pigeonholed.

However, there are a few genres in which I have a soft spot: jazz, Blues, and old-school R&B. These are the music I grew up listening to. My first concert was a jazz concert. My Madre dragged me to see George Benson. I can’t remember the show, but I’ve spent my life listening to his music. The jazz record I remember listening to was Ramsey Lewis’s Sun Goddess. I didn’t know it was jazz, but I still loved it.

Madre also played Motown, the Philly sound, and other R&B artists, such as Billy Paul, Barry White, and Teddy Pendergrass. My Mother also introduced me to rock and roll. She played Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, Linda Ronstadt, and others. So, it would seem that I was destined to be eclectic with my music choices.


Wordless Wednesday – 08142024

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGE – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

Daily writing prompt
What’s your go-to comfort food?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

There are many types of food that provide me comfort, but there is nothing like a good ole fashioned ice cream sandwich. That’s all I got to say about that.

Clear as the Morning

Daily writing prompt
Write about a random act of kindness you’ve done for someone.

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

When I was young, I was taught about altruism. I watched my MiMi practice this principle consistently. So, discussing random acts of kindness I’ve done is against my code. However, I can’t deny the power of random acts of kindness. They can shape one’s day or have lasting effects throughout an entire lifetime. I will discuss a few ideas I have watched emerge over the years that complement my code.

In 2000, a film called Pay It Forward was released. It was a delightful little film that I enjoyed immensely. In short, the film discusses the principle that if someone does you a kindness, you pay that kindness forward to another person. I still hear people uttering the Pay It Forward mantra. I love it. What I love about it is the fact nothing is expected in return. This makes the act altruistic in nature.

While dealing with my late wife’s health issues, I ran into a family who believed in a concept called God Winks. I had never heard of this concept and immediately dismissed it as hokum. Yet, one of the elders of the family sat down and explained the idea to me. Then, I realized it wasn’t hokum. We all have experienced seemingly unexplained acts of kindness throughout our lives, and this family called them God Winks. I still smile when I remember that conversation.

Lastly, in my studies, I came across a gentleman named Alan Watts. He had a concept I found rather refreshing that fit my code. This concept was called Clear as the Morning. Basically, the concept goes like this: When you wake up in the morning, envision your ideal morning, and whatever happens that day will be easier to handle. I have used this principle since I discovered it.

REBLOG: A Writer’s Path’s latest

I think it’s essential to establish a routine as a writer. Many of the greats discuss this technique in several books about writing. The post below offers some tips.

Hmmm..

Daily writing prompt
What is the most important thing to carry with you all the time?

DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

Usually, I would discuss my backpack and its contents. However, as they say, I will be short and sweet today. The most important thing I carry is my integrity. Possessing come and go, but your integrity can be forever.

Late Night Grooves #103

I like to keep you folks guessing about what I’m feature each night. This one is even a surprise to me. I was watching a TV show and heard this song. I couldn’t get it out of my mind. So, here is a little country …

Late Night Grooves #102

We are switching gears again on LNG. I’m playing another from my 80s playlist. XTC is one of those bands that creeps up on you when you listen to the album. The most popular song from their Skylarking album is Dear God. However, I’ve always enjoyed this track.

Have a listen…

Nice Try, Hero

Daily writing prompt
What foods would you like to make?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

I eat a lot of chicken and fish. So, I would like to learn several recipes to expand my palette. However, I do enjoy making anything that requires the use of an oven. However, I’ve been known to make some rather delightful applesauce. I can’t quite recall how that happened. I mean, I don’t remember any passed down recipes or anything, but I like applesauce, so I kind of figured out how to make it. I took it to my office on several occasions and it seemed to disappear. I’ve had similar experiences with my baked salmon.

Initially, I figured some knucklehead was throwing away my lunch. One day, I slipped out of my office and caught the thieves. Some of the ladies from another department were feasting on my lunch. When I confronted them, they simply responded by telling me that I should have brought more. So, in response, I got a lunchbox and used ice packs. Their response was that I was being mean and that I should share.

I also make some decent cakes. Well, at least my grandson seems to destroy each one I make. I took some into the office as a test, along with a blend of coffee I make at home, and before the break, it was gone. Now, several disasters occurred over the years before I perfected a few items. You know, a couple of them even suggested I open a restaurant. My response…

“I’m bringing in any more food! Nice try, hero.”

Wordless Wednesday – 08072024

ART – AI GENERATED – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Late Night Grooves #101

My friend Glyn commented about Ronnie James Dio’s vocal prowess during his time with Rainbow. I always forget about his time with Rainbow. Perhaps it’s because when I think about the band, I remember the tracks, All Night Long from the Down to Earth album (1979) with Graham Bonnet on vocals and Stone Cold from the Straight Between the Eyes album (1983) with Joe Lynn Turner lending with vocals.

Ironically, my favorite Rainbow track is done by Ronnie James Dio.

Here’s that track …

Fancy Restaurants are for Chumps

Daily writing prompt
What’s the most money you’ve ever spent on a meal? Was it worth it?

DAILY CHALLENGE RESPONSE

I’ve spent ridiculous amounts of money on this supposedly fine cuisine. More times than not, I’ve been severely disappointed with the outcome. I took my late wife to a fancy steakhouse that she had going on about for months. In the hope of some sanity, I took her to the restaurant. She made me get dressed up and everything.

The restaurant’s atmosphere was majestic, but the food was mediocre. My wife put on a smile as she ate her dinner. I wanted to ask for a refund, but I sat there with her, watching her enjoy her meal. After she finished, we sat and chatted a bit, enjoying the atmosphere. When we returned home, she went to the refrigerator and pulled out some ground beef. She stood there in her fancy dress cooking the ground beef.

She toasted a couple of buns with butter and garlic, then sat down at the table with her famous cheeseburgers for the both of us.

She took a bite of her burger and sighed, “That place was sure nice, but the food was horrible.”

I laughed as I ate my burger.

“We spent all that money and ended up eating cheeseburgers to get filled.”, she mused while smoking a cigarette.

“Yeah, but you’re sure wearing that dress,” I said deadpan. She chuckled and smiled mischievously.

The fancy restaurant wasn’t worth it, but sitting in our kitchen and spending time together was.


Daily Doodling – 08042024

ART-AI GENERATED – SKETCH

I’ve been trying to work on a fantasy story, so sketch time. Here are few renderings.


Late Night Grooves #100

One of history’s most well-known rock & roll songs is Back in Black by AC/DC. Like many, I’ve jammed to that song and many others from that legendary album. When I started writing this post, I had decided on a song that I wanted to discuss, but I realized it wasn’t on this album. However, it fits a future post. The Back in Black features several other tracks besides the title track that cement it into Rock and Roll history as one the best albums.

My favorite track on that album is a little number called Shake a Leg. I can’t really explain it. Even now, I can hear Brian Johnson wailing,

Idle juvenile on the street, on the street
Kickin’ everything with his feet, with his feet
Fightin’ on the wrong side of the law, of the law, yeah
Don’t kick, don’t fight, don’t sleep at night and shake a leg

Shake a leg
Shake a leg
Shake it again”

Perhaps it spoke to my restless soul. I can’t be sure, but I love that song …

Here it is …

Late Night Grooves #99

We need to reset a bit tonight. I need to play a little something the Madre would love—the kind of thing that made her tap her feet and sway to the groove. The Madre turned me on to Otis Redding. Nah, she didn’t sit me down and tell me this is what music really sounds like and all that, but she played it in the house, which meant it was good.

Otis Redding …

Wordless Wednesday – 07312024

ART – AT GENERATED IMAGES – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Late Night Grooves #98

One of the most popular albums of my youth was Dio’s Hold Diver. The best-known tracks from that album were Holy Diver and Rainbows in the Dark. The track Holy Diver has been covered more times than I can count. Some of the covers are rather interesting, but I still prefer the original. My nephew says I’m stubborn that way. I chuckle every time I think about it because he’s probably right.

Ronnie James Dio sang with Black Sabbath for a while, so many of my friends felt the necessity to discuss who the better singer was, Ozzy or Ronnie James. As that topic could be addressed adequately over a keg of beer, they tried until they were summoned by the porcelain god, Ralph. However, a buddy dubbed me a cassette of Holy Diver, and I listened.

As the album plays over my Sennheisers as I write this post, I find myself singing along with the track Invisible. It has always been my favorite track from the Holy Diver album. So, here it is …

I’ve always thought this album cover was righteous.

Late Night Grooves #97

I’ve had a few conversations about the previous LNG, so I decided to continue that groove. So, this week, I will feature tracks from my childhood. I mean, the stuff that might not have been as popular with my friends but holds a special place with me. Tonight, we will feature the Canadian band Rush. Most of my friends were huge fans of Tom Sawyer and played endlessly. They’d hush conversations when it came on the radio and turn it up. You dare not utter a word turning Neil Peart’s drum solo. However, I always preferred Limelight. So, here’s Limelight by Rush.

Macro Monday – 07292024

ART-AI GENERATED IMAGES – COLOR

I’ve been immersed in the world of Generative AI and have found myself simultaneously frustrated and enchanted. Typically, for Macro Monday, I use an actual photo, but this week, I thought I would present one of the things I’ve been working on. Quickly, I discovered the lack of macro work in my AI portfolio—oops. So, I found this cute image I created for something I can’t remember. It felt like when one comes across a photo on the card that you don’t remember taking.

I’m impressed by the amount of intricate detail in this creation, which was created about a month ago. I didn’t have a handle on prompt engineering at the time, so if I were to try to reverse engineer this creation, my approach would be different. I probably wouldn’t get the same image, but there are some things I would add and a few things I’d remove.

Feel free to express your candid thoughts about this creation or the use of AI in digital art. I love hearing opinions about stuff.

Wordless Wednesday – 07242024

ART – AI-GENERATED IMAGE

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Late Night Grooves #93

As Jazz week concludes on LNG, we are featuring Jazz Legend Miles Davis, whose career spanned over 4 decades. Here is one of my favorites.

Miles Davis (1926-1991)

Late Night Grooves #92

Tonight on LNG, we’re featuring another classic. In 1942, Dizzy Gillespie recorded the timeless track “A Night in Tunisia.” Here we have that with the Jazz Legend Charlie Parker on saxophone. Enjoy!


Late Night Grooves #91

Jazz week continues with a little Dave Brubeck. It was one of the first jazz tracks I heard in my musical discovery.

Dave Brubeck (1920-2012)

Daily Doodling – 07172024

ART -AI-GENERATED IMAGES – SKETCHING

I’ve been working on a clan of female warriors for the story I’m writing. So, I decided to visualize a series of drawings of possible images. I’ve always been an admirer of the samurai, so I started with that clan of warriors.


Wordless Wednesday – 07172024

ART – AI-GENERATED IMAGE – WATERCOLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Late Night Grooves #90

We are continuing the jazz groove tonight on LNG with a classic featuring two music legends. One of my favorite collaborations. Ladies and gentlemen, Grover Washington Jr. and Bill Withers.



As a bonus, here is an exciting cover of the classic. I enjoy their interpretation of the classic. Let’s give it a listen, shall we?

It’s All About the Chihuahua’s

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGES – SKETCHING

My dear friend is obsessed with two things; Elvis and Chihuahua’s. I can’t say I understand either one, but its her thing. So the other night, I decided to do a series of images featuring her little buddies.



So, did you know there are long-haired chihuahua’s? I didn’t until she started explainging the difference. Then, I remember these were the type she has.


FOTD – 07162024

PHOTOGRAPHY – COLOR

Yesterday, before the sky opened up and unleashed all kinds of nastiness, it was a beautiful serene day. Though, it was a little on the hot, I pulled out my phone and took a few shots. It felt good.


My Own World

Daily writing prompt
Which activities make you lose track of time?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.”
— Maya Angelou

I remember my mother saying, “Boy, you’re in your own little world … ain’t you?” She said this with an amused and proud expression. Later, I learned my mother had been an artist in her youth, and I guess she remembered what it was like to be on another plane of existence. Other than life, I believe passing on her creative mojo was one of the greatest she gave me. Thanks, Mom!


Lately, I’ve been enthralled with the world of artificial intelligence, specifically image generation. Somehow, this artistic expression has woken up something I considered a thing of the past. I sketched long ago, and I started telling stories. I remember using my Big Chief notebook and filling it with random drawings. My teachers would scold me because I had no paper to do my lesson. After all, I had drawn all over them. However, the teacher called my mother and suggested she get a sketchbook. Mom brought me a Mead unruled pad, and the rest was history.

It seemed like everyone was an artist in those days. We tried everything; crayons, colored pencils, watercolors, etc. You named it, and we tried it. Quickly, I discovered I didn’t have a knack for anything color. So, I stuck to sketching. I listened to the accolades my friend’s parents would bestow on their creations. My Mom would simply shrug and go back to what she was doing. It may seem like she wasn’t interested in what I was doing, but that wasn’t the case. I never had to ask for a new pad or notebook. My supplies never seemed to run out. Even when I started stories, there was always plenty of paper and writing instruments.


It seems so long ago, yet I still return to this plane after a good session. Ever since my wife passed, my episodes have gotten worse. No mystery sandwich appeared on my desk, flickering lights letting me know it was time for bed, or my favorite, the warm blanket I nestled under while falling asleep in my chair, scribbling my latest stint into madness. However, I try my best to return in a reasonable amount of time.

Perhaps in enough time to post a story, picture, or photo. Who knows? Because most of the time, I’m in my own world.

Late Night Grooves #86

Back in the 90’s, one of my soldiers was playing this band in my office. At the time I had a hard rule “No Unauthorized Tunage.” He wasn’t expecting me, so I allow him to explain himself. There were words, but I didn’t hear them. I walked out of the office and checked on the team in the another location.

We went on training mission and he started playing this group while we were traveling. I’ve been hooked every since.

Here’s Pennywise …

Wordless Wednesday – 07102024

ART – AI GENERATED IMAGE – COLOR

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Late Night Grooves #84

I can’t explain why does song caught my attention, but it did. I used to listen to it on road trips on Spotify, but it was removed from my playlist. However, YouTube has saved the day

Random Thoughts – 07062024

PROSE – SATIRE

Good Afternoon, I opened with this line this morning

“I watched the dawn burn away the night.”

I asked my cat what she thought of that line.

This was her response …

Everyone’s a damn critic. I shook my head, and of course, she was unaffected.

Really? I asked

Her response

You a little sh**! My muse had decided to take the form of my cat. My actual cat, Sophie, looks at me as if I have finally lost my mind.

Sophie, she turned 15 last Sunday.

Well, I do write the Memoirs of Madness

Late Night Grooves #82

Lately, we have changed the pace on LNG and we will continue exploring tracks within the different genres. Tonight,, we’ll featuring the music of David Gray.

Wordless Wednesday – 07032024

ART -AI GENERATED – POSTER ART

My submission for Hugh’s Views & News blog, Wordless Wednesday post.

Late Night Grooves #81

Tonight on LNG, we introducing a new artist to LNG. I got turned on to this artist a few years back. I was surprised that I enjoyed the range of his music.

Here’s is Amos Lee …

Late Night Grooves #80

I found about this artist a few years back and I made a note of him. I don’t listen to him a great deal, but I have been expanding my musical tastes. Here’s Jason Isbell…

Late Night Grooves #79

Marc Cohn rose to fame with his track “Walking in Memphis.” The track got tremendous airplay; I still hear it on oldie radio stations occasionally. However, though I enjoyed the track, his sophomore “The Rainy Season” made me a fan. Like any true fan, I went back and listened to his previous work and found this little number I find enjoyable.

Late Night Grooves #78

Howdy Peeps, tonight on LNG, we are featuring an artist that we’ve never featured before. I’ve listened to him in passing for many years, but somehow he has never into regular rotation.

Here’s T-Bone Burnett..

Late Night Grooves #77

Tonight on LNG, we’ll play a track that I had forgotten about from this artist. Usually, when I hear Donovan I immediately think of “Spirit in the Sky”, which happens to be a longtime favorite of mine. This particular track doesn’t hit my radar, but I heard it on the radio yesterday.

Donovan’s “Season of the Witch”:

Boy, you part squirrel?

Daily writing prompt
What’s the most delicious thing you’ve ever eaten?

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

As a kid, my idea of fresh fruit came from the market on a white tray wrapped in Saran Wrap. Of course, I ate apples from apple trees and stuff. However, I ran into many apples that needed to be ripe more or were too ripe. So, to solve this problem, the stuff on the tray was always right—well, at least of the time.

I married a southern woman, where dinner was a specific time and all that. I always looked at her strangely because I was hungry when I was hungry. One day, we were at her mother’s for dinner. Of course, my wife and her sisters had to show up early to assist in preparing the meal. The “men folk” had to sit on the carport until they sent for us. I was the youngest and the newest in the group. I sat there listening to garbage that older men sling at younger ones.

Suddenly, I was starving, so I went to tell my wife I would get something to eat while waiting for them to finish. You would think I had committed a cardinal sin or something. All my sister-inlaws started having a conniption about what I just said. Now, I was newly married, and my sister – inlaw’s had absolutely no sway. However, my mother-in-law made a sound in a tone that I recognized from my own mother. Quickly, I prepared myself for an exit. However, I came to my rescue, seeing my death was imminent. I didn’t know. I swear. How dare I walk into a kitchen of southern women cooking dinner and announce I was getting food from someplace. I want to point out here that making this announcement in any kitchen, anywhere in the world, most likely will have the same effect. Let’s just chalk this mistake to youthful ignorance.

My wife matched right outside, past the “men folk” laughing about something. I was hungry, and I got mean when I got hungry. There was a peach tree at the end of the driveway. My wife suggested I eat a few peaches to hold me over.

“From where?” I asked, looking confused and worried at once.

My wife returned my look. “The tree babe,” she said, pointing at the tree with several peaches on the ground around the trunk. I looked at my wife sternly.
“I’m not eating those,” I said firmly and began walking away, muttering over my shoulder, ” I only eat fresh peaches, you know, the ones on the white tray!” I had the classic duh expression on my face. It was something I used regularly back then.

My wife stood shaking her head and started laughing. She was holding her side and everything. I know I could occasionally be the source of extreme levity, and I didn’t feel this was one of those moments.

“They don’t get any fresher than these, hun, right off the tree,” she continued as she walked away. So, I tasted a peach. I was fully prepared to render I proper, “Woman, I told you.” However, I needed to be corrected. Those peaches were the best thing I had ever tasted. I ate one, then another, and another. Suddenly, I snapped out of my euphoric bliss.

“Boy, get down from there!” I hear a voice shout as I’m continuing stuffing more peaches down my throat.

“Girl, get your husband!” my mother-in-law told her daughter and looked back up at me. Boy, you part squirrel?”