I finished reading:
"Los Alamos" written by Joseph Kanon. 517 Pages.

Book # 9 of 2010 and 3635 pages at an average of 404 pages per book.

-Richard

So, what do I think of the infamous health care bill passed by Congress this week?

I guess, most people who know me would think that I would be ecstatic. I am pleased that it is a step in the right direction, but, not particularly happy because the bill, although it is progress it is still watered down too much and once again the individual personal politics, biases, irrational fears and kick-backs of the members of congress produced a weak bill. In the end of the day those making too much money out of the sick still get to do so. In my opinion this is almost like an insurance watchdog law, similar to car Insurance rather than a wholesale change. By this, I mean the government controls rate increases, the refusal of treatment and discrimination for pre-existing conditions. Yes, it will mean more people will be able to afford health care, but, it still has way too much power in the hands of the insurance companies and not the doctors.

What, I don't get is the complete hysterical reaction by the right. In a way they've won. This is not a "socialised" health care. It is no where near. In fact for those people who already have healthcare they "should" see a premium decrease because the extra premiums to cover those who go to emergency rooms with coverage etc.. etc.. should now not happen.

What is interesting is that some States are challenging the ruling saying it should be a States role to for Health Care and not the Federal Government. I agree with this to a certain degree . I think the ideal would be the Federal Government mandating the States to provide an affordable and guaranteed health care to all their citizens, allowing the States to chose how this is done. The Federal Government should only step in as a mediator, or "enforce" where the State fails to take care of it's citizens.

A long, long way to go and as I posted previously let's get away from this selfish party politics and personal gains and for once do what is right for all the Citizens of this Country.

-Richard

What's right and what's wrong?

I didn't go to Church today because I have picked up some virus and did not feel so good. So, I spent some time thinking. A dangerous thing I know. I guess my thoughts started by focusing on health care as it's so predominant in the news circles in the US at the moment, but, then I went beyond to a concept that we as a society seems to have lost. Plainly and simply what is right and what is wrong. We spend to much time focusing on how something fits within a Political Position, an economic position, a religious position or a nationalistic position without looking outside to what is the right thing to do. Perhaps if our leaders in Congress, Washington, the Duma etc.. could get away from lobbyists, special interests, irrational fears and simply do what is best for the vast majority of their people, not the minority the World we live in will be such a better place. I am idealistic. Absolutely!! I am thinking Utopian. Absolutely!! Am I being unrealistic. Unfortunately yes!! This Country I now call him was founded on ideals such as these, but, it did not take long for them to get lost. Some examples of what I am talking about starting with my pet peeve:

• Health Care. It is right that everyone can get health care and not worry about it. It is wrong that so many people can't most through no fault of their own. It is wrong that Government or the Private section make this impossible.
  
• It is wrong that some unborn babies do not get a chance
• It is wrong that in the 21st Century so many people cannot have somewhere to live or nothing to eat whereas as others have so much they do not know what to do with.
• It is wrong that a CEO can earn millions whilst spitting out the minimum wage worker who earns that for them and does not care that they lose everything they have.
• It is wrong that Trillions of Dollars are spent on Military's around that World and that the vast majority of people have nothing.
• It is plain wrong that billions or people around the world are scared for their safety, are scared for their future are scared what the next day will bring whilst a small, small percentage live in mansions taking everyone else for what they have.
  

I could go on and on and fill pages and pages. What would it take to get leaders who will do the right thing irrespective of personal gain? Have leaders who look at the big picture of everyone, not just a small circle that affects them? What would it take for the Political spectrum to look at every issue and say "we are the Government of the People let's do what's right and right for ALL the people"?

About two thousand years ago a guy called Jesus walked the face of the Earth. A series at Church is talking about what if 86'd or took Jesus out of the equation where would Christianity be, or what would it be? The answer is nothing. Now, taking this a step further. Jesus was a historical figure, his teaching recorded in many forms, not just The Christian Gospels. If you believe in God, Jesus is the Son of God or neither, but, just acknowledge that he was a good historical teacher look at his teachings. "Give to the poor", "heal the sick", "live in Peace", "love your enemy as your self", "take care of the little children". This is no different to what two thousand odd years later I have just said. Two thousand years of staggering scientific progress and knowledge. Tremendous technological developments, but, where are we really? In exactly the same position that Jesus talked about as he traveled along the Sea of Galilee.

-Richard

I finished reading:

Eisenhower - Allied Supreme Commander" written by Carlo D'Este. 705 Pages.

Book #8 of the year. 3118 pages at an average of 390 pages per book.

-Richard

Another year older. Where did the last year go?

A birthday for me also seems to be a time of retrospection. Where am I? Where am I going? This year not so much. There is way too much uncertainty for that at the moment.

What was hammered home to me was how lucky I am. A fantastic wife and great friends who love and care for me. In the end what else matters?

-Richard

I finished reading:

"On Both Sides of the Wall" written by Vladka Mead. 270 pages.

The second of two book in a row that I have read that shows how evil man can be in how they treat each other. Something I will never, and I am very thankful about that, understand.

Book #7 of 2010. 2,413 pages at an average of 345 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Alexander Dolgun's Story - An American in the Gulag" written by Alexander Dolgun and Patrick Watson. 270 Pages.

Book# 6 of the year. 2143 pages at an average of 357 pages per book.

-Richard

I was listening to ESPN Radio today when something the host was talking about really ticked me off. He was talking about the Winter Olympics. His comments where he was not really interested because due to the nature of the sports it could not be true "World Championship" as so many countries were unable to take part because of their climates. This is coming from a host who last week was on about the Superbowl champions being "True World Champions". All who know me know that I love the NFL, but, to say they champions are World Champions is, although technically correct as no one in the world could beat them, is absolutely ridiculous as the US is the only Country to play the sport.

True World Champions can be found in many sports: Football, Basketball, Rugby Union etc.., but, for an this particular host to use the argument he did was one of the most ignorant things I've heard in a long time.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The Punch" the very good telling of the story of Kermit Washington's nearly fatal punch of Rudy T. and the aftermath written by John Feinstein. 346 pages.

Book # 5 on the year. 1773 pages at an avg of 355 pages.

-Richard

I finished reading The Bible books of "Proverbs" and "Ecclesiastes" reading a chapter a day.

-Richard

Trying to get back to the cats we fostered. I am a long way behind so am really going to try hard to catch up.



The next two up were Mistletoe (Black and white, left) and Tinsel. They came into us on November 20th 2006 and weren't with us long. Tinsel got adopted on December 3rd and Mistletoe following shortly afterward on December 13th.

-Richard

It snowed yesterday in North Carolina. An unusual event. Nilla loves the snow and had a great time running around and playing in it. This made me think about how we view things. We are generally complicating things and making life difficult. Yes, life can be hard, but, surely we can also learn lessons from Nilla or children in that it is also what we make it?

Through Nilla's Eyes.

It snowed
Cold and fluffy.
I thought "what a pain
Can't work
Can't get out
Can't work
Stuck
What will I do?"

With a wag of a tail
Despite no longer a puppy
Nilla thought "wow
"How cool in this?"
And ran around and around
A white blaze lost
In the white carpet
That is now the back yard.
So much fun!

It's a complicated world
We live in
But, sometimes why can't we
View the world
In the eyes of a puppy,
Or, a child
And just....
Have some fun?

"And he said. "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven". Matthew 18:3

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The Wire in the Blood" written by Val McDermid. 496 pages.

Book#4 of 2010. 1427 pages at an avg of 357 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The Sun Chemist" written by Lionel Davidson. 284 pages.

The third book finished in 2010. 931 pages at an average of 310 -pages per book.

-Richard

We have had another week of nothing but bad news on the TV with the horrific Earthquake in Haiti. Also, work was really rough this week. Sometimes, despite my faith, it all seems so much. However, every time I feel like this something happens that restores my faith in people and humanity.

Today, I volunteered at the Children's Church. There was a new little girl who was very frightened and scared. During the play time at the end another little boy sat down with her and her Mom and showed them how to play UNO and played with them putting her at ease. A small, spontaneous gesture showing maturity and compassion well beyond his years. Inspired me and made me think that how welcoming am I as a forty year old and would I have done that. Probably not. How we can learn as adults from the "little children". This is the reason why Jesus said we should have a "childlike faith".

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The Centaur" written by John Updike. 270 pages.

Book #2 of 2010 for 647 pages at an average of 323.5 per book.

-Richard

Open or Closed? That is the question to start the year off. A good teaching at Church today.

So, for 2010 the question is an I going to be open to God's voice and leading this year and even more for the new decade, or, will I go my own way and be closed to God's voice? I prayer is the former and as one of my favourite worship songs proclaim "Open the eyes of my heart Lord!"

-Richard

I finished reading:

"XPD" written by Len Deighton. 377 pages.

This is the first book I have finished in 2010.

For 2009 I finished 69 books, 22,540 pages at an average of 327 pages per book. This compares with 97 books, 32,099 pages at an average of 331 per book in 2008.

-Richard

A New Year and a New Decade (sort off!!).... I am copying the Christmas letter that I send out this year from Jenn and I as it kinda sums up last year. For the future year I have one real goal. That is to really trust God more. There are some uncertainties in the short term future. One other thing I want to do is blog more (apart from books) and finally catch up on all the cats that we have fostered over the years.

Richard and Jenn’s 2009

It’s Christmas Morning 2009 and as I sit here reflecting on the miracle of Christmas and the year that has past it is time to right our quick review of the year for our friends spread around the World. I can’t believe that it’s been a year since I’ve done this!!
A year of milestones with me turning 40 (that has to be wrong??) and Jenn 35. We also celebrated 12 years of marriage. Our family gained Olivia a crazy cat, that for some reason adopted me. A long story, but, her life had a bad start with a lot of abuse, but, she is now settled and happy.



Our working life has not changed:
I am doing the same job. However, it’s been a tough year. The recession added a lot of extra pressures and stresses and the year started off badly with a RIF (Reduction in Force / Lay Off’s) where I had to lose two of my employees which was very tough. We also has the news that we are getting acquired by a different company which added a lot different equation to the situation. Currently the move is scheduled for Feb 1st so it’s a matter of waiting to see what happens. I did less travel with the job, but, managed to get to three States I had not been to: Missouri, Kansas and Connecticut which means I been to 39 now out of my quest to go to all 50. I believe I have nearly caught Jenn up!!

We are still actively involved in Snowflake animal rescue which keeps Jenn out of trouble. She has many roles including Kitten intake coordinator, Application screener, Census keeper etc.. etc.. and certainly keeps her out of trouble!! I have now the “dubious” honour of being Secretary on the Board of Directors. As in anything this year the economy has taken it’s toll with adoptions and therefore intake down. We did have some staggering good news in November when we were “gifted” about $500,000 from someone’s will. It came at a time were completely out of funds and could not pay our bills. We have no idea who this gentleman was, but, we are all very grateful at this miracle which will allow us to continue our mission for years to come. We did have a couple of sad events as two of our long term foster cats Katrina and Nimbus died this year. Although they were foster cats they had been with us a for several years so they were really part of our family.
We are still helping teach computers at the local Rescue Mission. A very rewarding and humbling experience we do a few times a year.

We started the year deciding to look for a new Church. The old one got a new Pastor that we did not like, nor, agree with. After going to several (you would not believe how many Churches are in Raleigh, North Carolina!!) we found one called Connections Church, a small, but, growing contemporary non- denominational church. Jenn always felt that this was were we were supposed to be, but, I was not sure. However, now we are both convinced this is the Church we are supposed to be at. One reason we really like it is that teaching is focused on “trying” to live your faith 24/7, putting it in action and not just on Sundays!! Starting in the New Year we are both going to start helping out a little in the children’s church.

We also did fun stuff!! Jenn is still scrapbooking and went on a scrapbooking weekend in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I went along for the ride and at restful weekend reading. We also went to the Outer Banks of North Carolina for the first time which is a pretty cool place. We went to some good concerts: The Eagles who were amazing. Last time we saw them was at the old Wembley Stadium years ago. I also went to see U2 and Must in Raleigh another great experience. We had the ultimate “red-neck” experience by going to see George Strait. Talking about red-neck I went to my first NASCAR race and thoroughly enjoyed it. As if I had another sport to be hooked on I am now for some reason addicted to cars driving around in a circle. I also went to my first NHL ice hockey game and College (American) Football game. Despite the years I’ve now lived here I still find amazing that college sports are so big. The game I went to: East Carolina University Pirates vs University of Alabama Birmingham had about 45,000 fans there and this one of the smaller teams. I did have one of the most unusual experience ever at a sporting event. Sitting next to some old guys shouting ‘First Down Pirates…Aaaarrrrgggghhh” in an attempted Cornish accent every time ECU got a first down.
We had a couple of visits from home which was great. Pauline and her family were in the US and we managed to meet up for the day in Ashville and Gavin and his family spent a good few days in Raleigh. We also spent two weeks in Texas visiting Jenn’s family and friends. This trip also gave me another “first”. I went to my first ever American High School Graduation Ceremony and yup, it is just like the movies.

I think that’s the quick summary so we and our family would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and Blessed and Prosperous 2010.
Lots of Love,

Richard and Jenn

-Richard

I finished reading"

"Blue Night" written by Cindy McCormick Martinusen. 387 Pages.

"Mr Stone and the Knights Companion" written by V.S. Naipaul. 126 Pages.

Books# 68 and 69 finished in 2009 for 22,540 pages at an average of 327 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Winter Passing" written by Cindy McCormick Martinusen. 377 pages.

"The Don Flows Home to the Sea" written by Mikhail Sholokhov. 688 pages.

Books# 66 and 67 of 2009 for 22,027 pages at an average of 329 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Alistair MacLean's Dead Halt" written by Alastair MacNeil. 376 pages.

"The Love-Child and the Innocent" a play written by Alexander Solzhenitsyn. 133 pages.

"Selected Tales" written by Nikolai Leskov. Five Short Stories: "Lady Macbeth of the Mtsensk District", "The Enchanted Wanderer", "The Left-Handed Craftsman", "The Sentry" and "The White Eagle". 300 Pages.

These are books number 63, 64 and 65 on the year for a total of 20,962 pages at an average of 322 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Germinal" written by Emile Zola. 499 Pages.

Book #62 and 20,153 pages at an average of 325 per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Humboldt's Gift" written by Saul Bellow. 471 pages.

Book# 61 for the year 19,654 pages at an average of 322 pages per book.

-Richard

In Memorium:
When I got back from Texas I got home to one of the most horrible shocks I ever experience. I got home to find that one our special, precious foster cats had died. Nimbus. We trapped Nimbus and some of his siblings behind Red Lobster in Raleigh a few years ago. He initially went to another foster home with some of the others. However, they were doing so badly that they came to us. Nimbus was a wild, scared, feral little boy when he came to us. After a lot of time and work (and quite a few scratches and bites!!) he came to be a sweet, loving boy. He stayed a foster cat, but, in reality was a "permanent" foster as he only trusted Jenn and I and could not go to events as he totally freaked out. He lived with his buddies in my home office, made his opinion known on conference calls, helped me write e-mails and sat on my lap purring all day whilst I worked. My home office is a very, very,lonely place at the moment.

We've wondered several times the last few days why and can we keep doing this? The answer is in Nimbus' life. He would have been a wild cat with a very, very low survival chance. We gave him love, a home and above all he learned to trust and love back and was the happiest little boy. This is why we do it and why we will do it again and again in honour of his memory and all the others that have passed before him and those that will after him.

Nimbus: We will miss you, we love you and thanks for all the happy memories and joys you gave us.

-Richard

I went to a my first Ice Hockey game this last week. Despite the fact that we live so close to the RBC Center in Raleigh where the Carolina Hurricanes play and that we watch hockey on TV I had never been to a game. So, ironically enough it wasn't until I went back to Texas and Dallas more accurately for a meeting I went to the first game: Dallas Stars vs Calgary Flames. It was fun and I think we will definitely go to come 'Canes games. The game? It finished 3-2 to Calgary in overtime.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Seize the Day" written by Saul Bellow. 128 Pages.

Book # 60 for 2009. 19,183 pages at an average of 320.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Candle in the Wind" a play written by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. 152 Pages.

One of my favourite authors and I enjoyed this, perhaps, not as much as his novels, but, still enjoyed it.

59th book of the year. 19,055 pages at an average of 323 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Men of Men" written by Wilbur Smith. 561 Pages.

I generally like Wilbur Smith books, but, this one was not one of my favourites.

Book# 58 of 2009. 18,903 pages at an average of 326 pages per book.

-Richard

End of Read-a-Thon Meme

1. Which hour was most daunting for you?
1am Eastern when I fell asleep
2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year?
Suspense or Thrillers
3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year?
No
4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon?
Good as it was
5. How many books did you read?
Finished 4 and 75% through one more
6. What were the names of the books you read?
The Spire - Golding, Pere Goriot - Balzac, Eugenie Grandet - Balzac, Banker- Francis and currently reading Men of Men - Smith
7. Which book did you enjoy most?
Banker because I didn't really expect to!!
8. Which did you enjoy least?
The Spire
9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders?
N/A
10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time?
Definitely as a reader. I will try again to go for 24 hours. This time was the closest I have come to it, but, only managed 20.

-Richard

Read-A-Thon. The End!!

Pages Read Last Hour - 94
Total Pages Read - 1286
Time Read Last Hour - 56 Mins
Total Time Read - 13 Hours 32 Mins
Books Finished - 4

I finished at page 417 of Men and Men which leaves 144 left

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 23. One Hour to go!!!

Pages Read this Hour - 64
Total Pages Read - 1192
Time Read this Hour - 38 Minutes
Total Time Read - 12 Hours 36 Minutes
Books Finished - 4

I am up to page 324 of Men to Men

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 22

Pages Read this Hour - 57
Total Pages Read - 1128
Time Read this Hour - 29 Minutes
Total Time Read - 11 Hours 58 Minutes
Books Finished - 4

I am up to page 260 of Men of Men

-Richard

OK, so I didn't make it and fell asleep. However, I am up for a final hour or so to finish off.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 17

Total Pages Read this Hour - 91
Total Pages Read - 1071
Time Read this Hour - 56 Minutes
Total Time Read - 11 Hours 29 Minutes
Books Finished - 4

I am now up to page 203 of Men and Men.

I am also in uncharted territory as this is now the latest I have gone for a read-a-thon. I am not sure how long I can keep going, but, we are about to take the dog for a walk to try and freshen up.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 16.

Pages Read this Hour - 94
Total Pages Read - 981
Time Read this Hour - 54 Minutes
Total Time Read - 10 Hours 33 Minutes
Books Finished - 4

I am up to page 112 of Men and Men

-Richard

Read-a-Thon end of Hour 15

Pages Read this Hour - 56
Total Pages Read - 887
Time Read this Hour - 30 Minutes
Told Time Read - 9 hours 39 minutes.
Books Finished - 4

The new book is Men of Men written by Wilbur Smith. I am currently up to page 18 out of 561.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Banker" written by Dick Francis. 303pages.

I enjoyed this despite the fact that I was not sure I would. Certainly, not a hard read, but, fun. I will pick up more of his to read.

Book # 57 of 2009. 18,342 pages at an average of 322 per book.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 13 and 14

Pages Read these Hours - 63
Total Pages Read - 831
Time Read these Hours - 34 Minutes
Total Time Read - 9 Hours 9 Minutes.
Books Finished - 3

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 12. Half Way!!!

Pages Read this Hour - 110
Total Pages Read - 767
Time Read this Hour - 53 Minutes
Total Time Read - 8 Hours 35 Minutes
Books Finished - 3

I am up to page 201 of "The Banker"

As it's 1/2 way I though I would a little comparison to this point last read-a-thon:

I had read 701 pages for 7 hours and 52 minutes so I am slightly ahead this time.

We are now going to pop home to feed the cats and get some dinner as this seems to be a good point for a break, although, we will probably continue to read a little over dinner.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 11

Pages Read this Hour - 67
Total Pages Read - 657
Time Read this Hour - 53 Minutes
Total Time Read - 7 hours 42 Minutes
Books Finished - 3

Up to page 91 of "Banker"

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 10

Pages Read this Hour - 55
Total Pages Read - 590
Time Read This Hour - 37
Total Time Read - 6 Hours 45 Minutes
Books Finished - 3

I am now up to page 24 of my newest book: Banker by Dick Francis. A change from the "classics" and an author I have never read before.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Eugenie Grandet" written by Honore de Balzac. 203 pages.

I liked this one better than Pere Goriot, but, in the typical novel from that time also sad and dark.

Book# 56. 18,039 pages at an average of 322 per book.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 9

Pages Read this Hour - 71
Total Pages Read - 535
Time Read this Hour - 54 Minutes
Total Time Read - 6 Hours 8 Minutes
Books Finished 2

I am up to page 172 of Eugenie Grandet.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 8

Pages Read this Hour - 65
Total Pages Read - 464
Time Read this Hour - 44 Minutes
Total Time Read - 5 Hours 14 Minutes.
Books Finished - 2

I am now on Page 101 of Eugenie Grandet

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 7.

No additional reading this hour as we took a lunch break.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 6

Pages Read this hour - 78
Total Pages Read - 399
Time Read this hour - 43 Minutes
Total Time Read - 4 Hours 30 Minutes
Books Finished - 2

I am now reading Eugenie Grandet also by Honore de Balzac. I am up to page 29 (out of 203)

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Pere Goriot" written by Honore de Balzac. 289 pages.

A good, but, sad book.

I will not post a photo as it was part of a two book volume. The second book, Eugenie Grandet I am about to start. I will post the photo when I am done with that one.

Book # 55 for the year. 17,836 pages at an average of 324 pages per book.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 5.

Pages Read this Hour - 71
Total Pages Read - 321
Time Read This Hour - 46 Minutes
Total Time Read - #3 Hours 47 Minutes.
Books Finished - 1

I am now up to page 240 of Pere Goriot.

-Richard

Read-a-Thon End of Hour 4.

Pages Read this Hour - 80
Total Pages Read - 250
Time Read this Hour - 54 Minutes
Total Time Read - 3 hours 1 Minute.
Books Finished - 1

I am up to page 169 of Pere Goirot.

-Richard

End of Read-a-Thon Hour 3

Pages Read this Hour - 50
Total Pages Read - 170
Time Read this Hour - 44 minutes
Total Time Read - 2 hours 7 minutes.
Books Finished - 1

I am up to page 89 of Pere Goriot.

-Richard

End of Read-A-Thon Hour 2

Pages Read this Hour - 30.
Total Pages Read - 120
Time Read this Hour - 30 Minutes
Total Time Read - 1 hour 23 Minutes.

I am up to page 30 (out of 289) of Pere Goriot.

-Richard

End of Read-a-Thon Hour One.

Pages Read - 90.
Total Pages Read - 90
For the Hour Time Read - 53 Minutes
Total Time Read - 53 Minutes
Books Finished - 1

New Book to be started Pere Goriot by Honore de Balzac. 289 pages.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The Spire" written by William Golding. 214 pages.

Not my favourite style of writing, but, I have some others by him to read in the future which I will.

Book# 54 on the year. 17547 pages at an average of 325 pages per book.

-Richard

8am. Start of the Read-a-Thon.

I am starting with the book that I am currently reading: "The Spire" by William Golding. At the moment I am on page 124 of 214, which means that I have 90 to go.

-Richard

Tomorrow is fourth 24 hour read-a-thon Jenn and I have participated in.


This time is slightly different as we are staying in a local La Quinta has I had coupons for two free nights which expires next week. So we will sit back, and read in a quiet environment starting 8am Eastern tomorrow.

I will blog my progress every hour and when a book is finish post as I normally do. I will also be reading exactly as normal in the order I bought the books. The only difference being this time as we are in a hotel I had to pick them of the shelves ahead of time so it will not be a surprise when I see what is next.

Until the morning....

-Richard

I finished reading The Bible book of Psalms.

"Let everything that have breath praise The Lord.
Praise The Lord". Psalm 50 vs 6 (NIV).

-Richard

I finished reading:

"H.M.S. Unseen" written by Patrick Robinson. 526 pages.

Book # 53 of 2009. 17,333 pages at an average of 327 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Robert Ludlum's The Hade's Factor" written by Robert Ludlum and Gayle Lynds. 420 Pages.

Book # 52 for 16,807 pages at 323 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The Army Times Book of Great Land Battles From the Civil War to the Gulf War" written by Colonel J.D. Morelock. 330 Pages.

"The Lions Game" written by Nelson DeMille. 926 pages.

Books 50 and 51, 16, 387 pages at 323 per book.

-Richard

On Saturday I went to see U2 in concert. One of the bands that I really have wanted to see live. The concert was at the home of North Carolina State University, Carter -Finley Stadium.

It was well worth it. The concert was excellent. The thing I like about U2 is that apart from the good, tight musicianship and entertainment they have a relevant message. They are political without being biased. By that I mean they jump on just causes, but, do not publicly endorse a party. For example on Saturday they thank both the John Edwards family, a very liberal democrat and the Jesse Helms family a right wing Conservative for both supporting their cause against poverty One.org

They also have a spiritual element. One of my all time favourite songs is "Pride" and the line "One Man came in the name of Love" always gives me goose bumps. Unfortunately they did not sing that song on Saturday. One thing they did sing was the first verse to "Amazing Grace" which most of the 60,000 crowd sang. Talk about goose bumps.

The other thing about the concert I really like was the opening act, an English band called Muse. I had never heard of them, but, thoroughly enjoyed them and would recommend them. I am in the process of listening to their latest album "The Resistance". They are not the typical run of the mill modern group, but, more of a concept and varied sound. At least Jenn can't say to me now that I don't listen to modern "Popular Music".

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Indian Country" written by Peter Matthiessen. 330 Pages.

This is a subject I've written on and read about before: The total disgraceful treatment of the American Indians. The upsetting thing about this particular book is that the stories it told of Corporate or Government Exploitation was taking place in the late 70's and Early 80's (when this book was written). Not, that it makes it any better, but, sometimes when it's a different century or before one was born it seems a long time ago and we have progressed since then. However, when it happens in your lifetime or even when I was going to school it is somehow more shocking. Yet, we still do not hear much about this. We hear about discrimination against African Americans, Hispanics, Woman, Homo-sexuals etc... but how often do we hear it against the people that were here first before any of these groups ever even thought about setting foot on this continent.

Book # 49 - 15231 pages at 311 per book.

-Richard

Church today made me think. The subject was connecting by God and by Confessing His name.

This made me think because all the time I talk about sports teams. For example today, being an NFL Sunday I proudly wore my Giants Championship T-Shirt and Cap. Nearly every day I probably wear some item of clothing that "confesses" my support of a sports team. How often do I confess the greatest thing in my life? My faith and love of Jesus? I surely have this the wrong way around?

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The Causes of the War of 1812, National Honor or National Interest?" edited by Bradford Perkins. 117 pages.

An interesting collection of Essays from different perspectives. What causes the War of 1812? Was it because of the British Blockade, or the impressment of American sailors, British incitement of the Indian Tribes against the Settlers, the desire for expansion in Canada or purely Nationalism and pride. Lots of different theories. Having read this and other books on the subject I am tempted to go with a combination of the economic affect of the British Blockade Policy and the piracy of the British Navy forcing Americans to serve on the British Ships.

Book #48. 14901 pages at an average of 310 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Skeleton Man" written by Tony Hillerman. 336 Pages.

Book# 47 read for 14784 pages at an average of 315 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The Rise and Fall of T.D. Lysenko" written by Zhores A. Medvedev. 254 pages.

An interesting book how the Stalin's Personality Cult could effect science if it was contrary to what his favourites think. For example Bohr's model of the Atom, Pauling's Resonance Theory and even Einstein's Theory of Relativity were declared wrong because they did not fit. Many good scientists had the life ruined just because they stayed true to their research.

"The Great Taos Bank Robbery and Other Indian Country Affairs" written by Tony Hillerman. 176 pages.

Several short non-fiction essays written by Hillerman.

Books # 45 and 46 for the year. 14469 pages at 315 per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"John C. Calhoun" written by Richard N. Current. 162 pages.

Book #44 for the year. 14039 pages at 320 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Richthofen, The Red Baron" written by Emile C. Schurmacher. 184 Pages.

Book # 43, 13877 pages at 323 per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Gideon's Power" written by J.J. Marric. 224 pages

"Golden Girl" written by Simon Gandolfi based on Alistair MacLean's screenplay. 291 pages.

These are books 41 and 42 for the year. 13,693 at 326 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"The English Channel" written by Nigel Calder. 352 pages. This book is about the Geography, Geology and History of the Channel.

"Will you Choose Joy, reflections of Philipians" written by Captain Normajean Honsberger. This was a special book for two reasons. The first is the inspiration of Mrs Honsberger who despite suffering from cancer herself and losing her husband from cancer never lost her faith. The second is that she and her husband were in charge of the Camp where Jenn and met and more importantly she was the minister who married us. She was an inspiration when she was alive and her example is still an inspiration even though she is no longer with us.

There are books 39 and 40 for the year for a total of 13,178 pages at 329 per book.

-Richard

The Health Care debate in this Country is now really starting to irritate me. I have expressed my views many, many times before so I do not wish to re-hash them at the moment. What has my ire at the moment are the lies and fear mongering that is going on, or lobbyists trying to add clauses to the bill that they want. Isn't about time that the Country get beyond Party Politics, get beyond any individual agenda and for once do what was right.

The Country and Constitution was formed by men trying to do what was right. Putting aside their own differences and doing what was right. We need to do this again. What is right is that every single hard working family, every person who has given so much to their society, every kid who has not even had the chance to live have the right to be able to get their health taken care of without worrying about it, without having to give up all other dreams. In fact we hear of the American dream, how about not destroying it just because through no fault of their own they get sick despite working for 40, 60, 80 hours. This is "a right". It is just. It is fair. It is putting it plain and simply the RIGHT thing to do.

Before I finish this rant I have one more. I am especially angry when I hear Christians be against this because a fear of "Socialism". I want to challenge every one to ask what would Christ do? The Christ who ate with outcasts in Society, who gave everything he had for free. Gave his life for free because it was the right thing to do. A healing Christ, a healing Church and you are opposed to everyone having the chance to have health.

Come on. Let's do this Country, the founding fathers, Christ, every individual proud and to the RIGHT thing.

-Richard

Being a Christian is easy right? An easy option, a crux to fall back on?

In some ways if you want it to be I guess the answer is it could be. Accept Christ and that's all you have to do for peace of mind.

However, that's not at all it. It is trying to live a life that follows Christ. It's also not who shouts the loudest, who preaches the loudest, who gives the most or even if one can raise someone from the dead.

The guide, as discussed in Church the last series is found in 1 Corinthians 13, the so called "Love Chapter" that many, many people know from weddings. "Love is patient, love is kind etc.." What this chapter states sounds easy. Love. Yeah I can do that. It's not that easy. What does this involve in a daily life. Some example: Self-Control, patience, kindness, joy, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, slow to anger etc.. etc.. Characteristics that have to exhibited in every aspect of your daily life no matter what situation. Not so easy.

My goal: To try. I will fail many, many times every day, but, the goal is to try, try and try again.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Blood on the Shores, Soviet SEALs in World War II" an autobiography written by Viktor Leonov. 213 Pages.

Book number 38 this year for 12,686 pages at 334 per book.

-Richard

This is something I've been planning to do on my blog for a while. In some just to ramble on and crystallise my thoughts.

I am talking about discussing things that crop up in my faith. Mainly I was planning on discussing questions or thoughts that I may have had during a Church Service or Small Group meeting.

Why? I post about books I read, music I listen to, Cats we fostered, politics, sports, my family etc... However, a very important part of my life, the most important part is my faith and it is only mentioned in passing.

Why haven't I earlier? I think it was because I did not want to come across to any who read this blog as preaching as that's not what I want or am about. Also, people who read this will know, or it will be patently obvious that I am not perfect, therefore, I did not want to come across hypocritically or false an imagine that Christians are so often perceived. For me my faith is not a thing to preach it is an attempt at a way of life, a way of life that I so often fail in everyday, but, a way of life that I strive to reach, despite these failures.

Why Start now? The message at Church today was about relationships, especially with God and how it should infuse all of ones life and how everything should be committed. Therefore, despite my reticence I have decided to move forward with this. I am sure I will not write every week, but, I aim to frequently.

For those who read this I hope it does not drive you away or you think, oh no another religious crazy, but, I hope you will see how this is important in my life and how it shapes so many other opinions and thoughts in my life.

-Richard

The next kitten we fostered was Sloane. He was a little orange boy that we got at an adopathon in October 2006. A couple who had previously adopted from Snowflake found him under an overpass in Cary, NC. They picked him and brought him to where we would be. We took him and he was adopted out on December 3rd.

-Richard

I've just got home after a couple of days on the road. This incorporated going to four States: Missouri, Kansas, Iowa and Nebraska. Two of these Missouri and Kansas are new States for me. This means that I now been to 37 of the 50 States. It also meant that I went to a new airport for me: Kansas City.

I also read two books on this trip:

"Catch a Falling Spy" written by Len Deighton (322 pages) and "The Moscow Club" written by Joseph Finder (530 pages).

These were books 36 and 37 of the year for 12473 pages averaging 337 pages per book.

-Richard

I finished reading:

"Spy Sinker" written by Len Deighton. 435 pages.

The last of the three book series.

35th book of the year. 11621 pages at 332 pages per book.

-Richard

Wasteland

The strings scream out
Trying to be heard
Above the noise and
Racket
Trying to impact
The desert that is
This cultural wasteland.

Christ cries out
Trying to be heard
Above the sin and
Destruction
Trying to impact
This nation that is
This spiritual wasteland.

28th March 1997 - Spring Harvest, Skegness, Lincolnshire, England.

-Richard

Time for the next cat we fostered. She was Pumpkin. She came to us after her original foster Mom died and she did not work in another foster home. Unfortunately she was not with us very long because she also did not settle into our foster home. After moving through two other foster homes she's found her perfect home with two other Snowflake volunteers who fell in love with her and she now has a fantastic loving home.

- Richard

I finished reading:

"Spy Line" written by Len Deighton, the second book of the trilogy. 323 pages.

34th book this year, 11186 pages at 329 pages per book.

-Richard