Hambone v3.0

Christmas Poem

Eternity stood suspended
Upon one point in time.
All creation stilled itself
With bated breath held fine.

The wind was still, the stars shone clear,
And flowing brooks were calm,
While the virgin brought forth for all
Divine nature’s balm.

A babe it was she bore for us,
The future of all man,
She kissed his head and stroked his hair,
And touched his little hand.

A cry he gave and Mary looked
With calm and loving eyes.
While Joseph watched with kindly wonder
As Mary calmed his cries.

Mary leaned back upon the straw
While Joseph watched the babe.
Both would ponder and marvel at
The turn their lives had made.

They were entrusted with such a gift
As no one ever would,
Eternity rested within Mary’s arms
And Joseph close by stood.

And as the baby slept so sound
In mother’s arms with love,
All creation came unbound
And stars twinkled high above.

************************

And a very Merry Christmas to all my family and friends – near, ‘net, and far away!

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198 responses to “Christmas Poem”

  1. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    Merry Christmas all

    Waiting to hear footprints in the hall. Already ate the cookies and drank the milk. Daughter Reesa posted on Facebook last night

    “70 year old dad and 73 year old uncle are playing with a Whoopie Cushion like they were 8. I love it”

    It’s a wonderful life to be blessed like I am.

  2. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    P.S. TT

    Thanks for all the Christmas spirit in your writings this season.

  3. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    P.S. TT

    Thanks for all the Christmas spirit in your writings this season.

  4. wagonburner Avatar
    wagonburner

    On behalf of the rest of the Hambone writing crew I’d like to wish all of you a Merry Christmas! Thanks for sticking around. Have a blessed day with family and friends.

    O Lord, we do not pray
    that your birth according to the flesh
    shall be renewed as it once occurred.
    Rather we pray
    that your invisible Godhead
    may be grafted into us.
    May that which was then
    accorded in the flesh to Mary alone,
    now be granted in the spirit to the church:
    so that faith unquestioning may conceive you,
    the spirit free of all corruption may bear you,
    and the soul overshadowed
    by the power of the Most High
    may quicken with you evermore.
    Go not forth from us;
    spring forth rather from within us. Amen.

  5. Hamous Avatar
    Hamous

    On behalf of the rest of the Hambone writing crew I’d like to wish all of you a Merry Christmas! Thanks for sticking around. Have a blessed day with family and friends.

    O Lord, we do not pray
    that your birth according to the flesh
    shall be renewed as it once occurred.
    Rather we pray
    that your invisible Godhead
    may be grafted into us.
    May that which was then
    accorded in the flesh to Mary alone,
    now be granted in the spirit to the church:
    so that faith unquestioning may conceive you,
    the spirit free of all corruption may bear you,
    and the soul overshadowed
    by the power of the Most High
    may quicken with you evermore.
    Go not forth from us;
    spring forth rather from within us. Amen.

  6. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    Merry Christmas, all! I got to see Aggie Beau in his pajamas for the first time this morning as he dragged himself downstairs from his makeshift bed in our office. Cute. Lovely Daughter is making coffee for us and we are awaiting Mom-in-law who promises to bring cinnamon rolls. Sister and her hubby should be here soon. We shall eat, have presents, and then move on to my Dad’s house to finish Christmas there.

    Fr. Ben got a nap in last night before midnight mass, so he was all rested up for his homily. He is so cute when he gets going! I love listening to him preach the Word, he makes it enjoyable. Some priests kill the mass, he brings it to life.

    MIL just showed up with breakfast, so I must go. I hope that all of you have a wonderful day.

  7. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    Merry Christmas, all! I got to see Aggie Beau in his pajamas for the first time this morning as he dragged himself downstairs from his makeshift bed in our office. Cute. Lovely Daughter is making coffee for us and we are awaiting Mom-in-law who promises to bring cinnamon rolls. Sister and her hubby should be here soon. We shall eat, have presents, and then move on to my Dad’s house to finish Christmas there.

    Fr. Ben got a nap in last night before midnight mass, so he was all rested up for his homily. He is so cute when he gets going! I love listening to him preach the Word, he makes it enjoyable. Some priests kill the mass, he brings it to life.

    MIL just showed up with breakfast, so I must go. I hope that all of you have a wonderful day.

  8. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    Here’s some fancy footwork.

  9. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    Here’s some fancy footwork.

  10. wagonburner Avatar
    wagonburner

  11. Hamous Avatar
    Hamous

  12. bweldon Avatar
    bweldon

    Merry Christmas to one and all.

    May the winds of circumstance be at your back and the road of destiny rise to meet your feet.

  13. squawkbox Avatar
    squawkbox

    Merry Christmas to one and all.

    May the winds of circumstance be at your back and the road of destiny rise to meet your feet.

  14. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    Merry Christmas all. Blustery 44 at 6, overcast and looking like a snow sky. Down to 42 and wind has strengthened. Rainfall last night remained at 1.5″ with perhaps a light mist now and then. A large shallow puddle in the back yard gives testament to our having watered that area the day before yesterday. No puddles where the sprinkers didn’t reach, all soaked in. The pansies are bending in the wind gusts, their faces turning to and fro. More pecans fly across the yard from trees that stubbornly try to hang on to them. Live oaks are the only ones with leaves now, and even they are losing some to the strong gusts.

    Two neighbors, bundled up and leaning into the north wind, are making a quick walk down the road. I trust it won’t be far. Otherwise the neighborhood is quiet. No small children in our two-street subdivision any more, only grandkids perhaps coming to visit later today. The woodsy creatures are sleeping in. The mares graze for a bit and then take shelter beside the barn. Mariposa, snug inside, sits at my feet for a bit before curling up in a favorite spot. Christmas music makes drifts about the house, and Christmas lights chase the gloom outside. And at last we can wear winter clothes for a few days in a row.

    We had our Christmas gifting last night, and some Christmas wine, a combo of cherry and white grape wines from a Wisconsin winery. For this evening, the delightfully decadent milk chocolate and red wine combo from Holland, ChocoVine, is in reserve. Good stuff that creeps up on you on silent cat feet and then pounces. A little goes a long way.

    Thanks to Tedtam for her inspirational writings amid all the preparations. Hamous, the digital story above is a hoot. It must be flying around the net. Good news travels fast.

  15. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    Merry Christmas all. Blustery 44 at 6, overcast and looking like a snow sky. Down to 42 and wind has strengthened. Rainfall last night remained at 1.5″ with perhaps a light mist now and then. A large shallow puddle in the back yard gives testament to our having watered that area the day before yesterday. No puddles where the sprinkers didn’t reach, all soaked in. The pansies are bending in the wind gusts, their faces turning to and fro. More pecans fly across the yard from trees that stubbornly try to hang on to them. Live oaks are the only ones with leaves now, and even they are losing some to the strong gusts.

    Two neighbors, bundled up and leaning into the north wind, are making a quick walk down the road. I trust it won’t be far. Otherwise the neighborhood is quiet. No small children in our two-street subdivision any more, only grandkids perhaps coming to visit later today. The woodsy creatures are sleeping in. The mares graze for a bit and then take shelter beside the barn. Mariposa, snug inside, sits at my feet for a bit before curling up in a favorite spot. Christmas music makes drifts about the house, and Christmas lights chase the gloom outside. And at last we can wear winter clothes for a few days in a row.

    We had our Christmas gifting last night, and some Christmas wine, a combo of cherry and white grape wines from a Wisconsin winery. For this evening, the delightfully decadent milk chocolate and red wine combo from Holland, ChocoVine, is in reserve. Good stuff that creeps up on you on silent cat feet and then pounces. A little goes a long way.

    Thanks to Tedtam for her inspirational writings amid all the preparations. Hamous, the digital story above is a hoot. It must be flying around the net. Good news travels fast.

  16. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #6 Hammy
    Priceless!!!

  17. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #6 Hammy
    Priceless!!!

  18. SC Avatar
    SC

    Merry Christmas all. Stay safe.

  19. SC Avatar
    SC

    Merry Christmas all. Stay safe.

  20. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    Merry Christmas to everybody. I can’t be as eloquent as Adee, so I’ll just say that its colder than day old penguin poo out there today.

  21. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    Merry Christmas to everybody. I can’t be as eloquent as Adee, so I’ll just say that its colder than day old penguin poo out there today.

  22. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    #11 Sarge, He he he. 🙂

    Wind chill about an hour ago was 35 according to our little home weather station. Wind hasn’t abated as far as I can tell. Have put the poinsettias closer to the house under the patio cover in back and congratulate my forethought for taking in several items from the front porch last night. Sun is trying to come out, which is good, but that means we shall freeze our kazoos tonight. Sprinklers sitting in the yards look utterly absurd after last night’s rainfall and temperature dive. Removing them will entail bundling up. A good project for after dinner.

  23. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    #11 Sarge, He he he. 🙂

    Wind chill about an hour ago was 35 according to our little home weather station. Wind hasn’t abated as far as I can tell. Have put the poinsettias closer to the house under the patio cover in back and congratulate my forethought for taking in several items from the front porch last night. Sun is trying to come out, which is good, but that means we shall freeze our kazoos tonight. Sprinklers sitting in the yards look utterly absurd after last night’s rainfall and temperature dive. Removing them will entail bundling up. A good project for after dinner.

  24. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    39 mharper42 says:
    December 24, 2010 at 9:53 pm
    Question related to the Texas House Speaker position: Does anyone have an opinion about Beverly Woolley? Even though her district is in Harris County, I don’t know anything about her.

    There’s a recent post on Big Jolly in which she is described as Texas Tea Party Caucus Co-Chair. However she has been in the Lege for 8 terms. It’s hard for me to reconcile Tea Party (which I see as new, fresh, grassroots conservatism) with 8 terms in the Lege.

    Beverly Wooley is another relative moderate who is a Republican first and a Conservative second—and only when its politically expedient. Young Conservatives of Texas, who are against the re-election of Straus, give her a fairly middle of the page rating.

    On abortion, she rates about the same as Straus does, which isn’t surprising for a squish.

    This move is being described by increasingly nervous Straus supporters as being significant. But its about the 20th time they’ve proclaimed that most recent development means that the race is over. But this move by Wooley is the kind of move that someone who has been in office for the past 16 years would make. If Straus wins, her public support gets rewarded. If Straus loses, it will be as a result of a secret ballot in a Republican Cuacus, and nobody will know who changed their public support for him. He doesn’t have enough Republican votes (and is losing them in a steady drip, drip, drip) to win outright in a vote in the chamber, and the Democrats have already voted in Caucus and they have all agreed to vote for him. He’s got a lead pipe cinch if his supporters can convince enough people that its over and stop paying attention. If we keep being interested and passing information between ourselves, it ain’t over and he has to make deals with Conservatives (instead of Democrats) to keep his job. He’s looking for an easy path to Victory, which is understandable. but it also means that these clowns still don’t understand that “change” means doing things differently.

    As to her length of incumbency being an indication that she may not be entirely true to Tea Party principles, this guy agrees with you.

    Big Jolly Politics
    Did you know that the “Tea Party Caucus” avgs 8.7 years in office w/o newbies? Some Tea Party that is. #txlege

    December 17 at 10:21am via HootSuite.

    Now the math there takes out all of the Members who have just been elected, which is kind of weasly, because the number of new members elected would be a better guidepost. But I’m thinking that if you subtracted her 16 years in the Lege, then the average of the other members would go considerably down. Her position as Vice Chair is a recognition of Seniority in the Lege more than it is an indication of her dedication to the cause. Now that she’s announced support for Straus, her length of incumbency is all of a sudden an asset rather than the liability it was a week ago.

    Her membership in the TPC certainly shows that she knows how to read handwriting on walls, and her backing Straus shows that she knows how to hedge her bets. She’s a political survivor at a time when that’s not necessarily a good thing.

    This ain’t over by a long shot, and even if Straus does get re-elected it ain’t over. In fact, his only real smart move here to make sure its over well and good is to win in Caucus—and by a wide margin. We’ll have to see what kind of political shenanigans he performs to keep that from happening. I’m betting he will avoid it at all costs.

    Oh, and BTW:

    As long as Straus supporters are playing the “Your PACs are more evil than my PACs” game, lets just ask how much money it takes to have a former Presidential Advisor and Ambassador come to work for you?

    6:27 PM Tue, Jul 14, 2009 Robert T. Garrett/Reporter

    Former George W. Bush adviser Karen Hughes has signed on as one of two “strategic counselors” to Texas House Speaker Joe Straus as he seeks re-election and girds for the next session of the Legislature, Straus’ office announced this afternoon.

    And lets ask ourselves if we really want someone as close to the Bushies and their brand of Conservatism being Speaker of the Texas House.

  25. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    It’s been at least 20 years since I invested in one of these, and it has proven itself to be very helpful many times.

    The last thing I wanted to do on a Christmas morning in the middle of a cold spell was to help daughter change a tire on her car when she was already in a hurry to get to work. Mission accomplished.

  26. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    It’s been at least 20 years since I invested in one of these, and it has proven itself to be very helpful many times.

    The last thing I wanted to do on a Christmas morning in the middle of a cold spell was to help daughter change a tire on her car when she was already in a hurry to get to work. Mission accomplished.

  27. Dooood Avatar
    Dooood

    March 20, 2000 – United Kingdom:

    Britain’s winter ends tomorrow with further indications of a striking environmental change: snow is starting to disappear from our lives.

    Sledges, snowmen, snowballs and the excitement of waking to find that the stuff has settled outside are all a rapidly diminishing part of Britain’s culture, as warmer winters – which scientists are attributing to global climate change – produce not only fewer white Christmases, but fewer white Januaries and Februaries.

    and:

    Global warming, the heating of the atmosphere by increased amounts of industrial gases, is now accepted as a reality by the international community. Average temperatures in Britain were nearly 0.6°C higher in the Nineties than in 1960-90, and it is estimated that they will increase by 0.2C every decade over the coming century. Eight of the 10 hottest years on record occurred in the Nineties.

    However, the warming is so far manifesting itself more in winters which are less cold than in much hotter summers. According to Dr David Viner, a senior research scientist at the climatic research unit (CRU) of the University of East Anglia,within a few years winter snowfall will become “a very rare and exciting event”.

    “Children just aren’t going to know what snow is,” he said.

    December 19, 2010 – United Kingdom:

    Drifts of up to 6ft are expected as 60mph Arctic gales batter the country. Motorists and train commuters have been warned to expect chaos while thousands of schools will shut early.

    Millions of Christmas cards and presents will not arrive.

    Forecasters have warned that the storms, which will drop a foot of snow in hours, will be even more serious than the notorious 1962-63 winter and the worst to hit Britain since 1927.

    Giant drifts are set to close dozens of main roads. Scores of railway lines will be threatened with long delays and ­cancellations.

    Netweather forecaster Ian Michaelwhite said: “Heavy snow is expected to fall on Thursday everywhere north of a diagonal line from the River Humber to the Cotswolds and Wales.

    “The winds are expected to cause 6ft drifts in the north. Many roads will be closed, including A roads.”

  28. Texpat Avatar
    Texpat

    March 20, 2000 – United Kingdom:

    Britain’s winter ends tomorrow with further indications of a striking environmental change: snow is starting to disappear from our lives.

    Sledges, snowmen, snowballs and the excitement of waking to find that the stuff has settled outside are all a rapidly diminishing part of Britain’s culture, as warmer winters – which scientists are attributing to global climate change – produce not only fewer white Christmases, but fewer white Januaries and Februaries.

    and:

    Global warming, the heating of the atmosphere by increased amounts of industrial gases, is now accepted as a reality by the international community. Average temperatures in Britain were nearly 0.6°C higher in the Nineties than in 1960-90, and it is estimated that they will increase by 0.2C every decade over the coming century. Eight of the 10 hottest years on record occurred in the Nineties.

    However, the warming is so far manifesting itself more in winters which are less cold than in much hotter summers. According to Dr David Viner, a senior research scientist at the climatic research unit (CRU) of the University of East Anglia,within a few years winter snowfall will become “a very rare and exciting event”.

    “Children just aren’t going to know what snow is,” he said.

    December 19, 2010 – United Kingdom:

    Drifts of up to 6ft are expected as 60mph Arctic gales batter the country. Motorists and train commuters have been warned to expect chaos while thousands of schools will shut early.

    Millions of Christmas cards and presents will not arrive.

    Forecasters have warned that the storms, which will drop a foot of snow in hours, will be even more serious than the notorious 1962-63 winter and the worst to hit Britain since 1927.

    Giant drifts are set to close dozens of main roads. Scores of railway lines will be threatened with long delays and ­cancellations.

    Netweather forecaster Ian Michaelwhite said: “Heavy snow is expected to fall on Thursday everywhere north of a diagonal line from the River Humber to the Cotswolds and Wales.

    “The winds are expected to cause 6ft drifts in the north. Many roads will be closed, including A roads.”

  29. Dooood Avatar
    Dooood

    Links for #15

    2000 – The Independent
    2010 – The Daily Star

  30. Texpat Avatar
    Texpat

    Links for #15

    2000 – The Independent
    2010 – The Daily Star

  31. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #14 Bob

    That air tank seems to be one of those “practical manly gifts” that you guys are so fond of. Hope the girl likes it! Or maybe I read your post wrong and you bought this for yourself? If so, I guess you would take it to wherever she needed air in a tire.

    I used to have a manual foot pump that could get a low tire on my Toyota Hilux pickup aired up enough to drive to the tire store in 5-6 minutes. That was actually faster than it takes to find & set up the electric air pump we have now.

  32. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #14 Bob

    That air tank seems to be one of those “practical manly gifts” that you guys are so fond of. Hope the girl likes it! Or maybe I read your post wrong and you bought this for yourself? If so, I guess you would take it to wherever she needed air in a tire.

    I used to have a manual foot pump that could get a low tire on my Toyota Hilux pickup aired up enough to drive to the tire store in 5-6 minutes. That was actually faster than it takes to find & set up the electric air pump we have now.

  33. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    #17 I bought the tank as a gift for myself long ago. (I’m smart enough to know a young woman would not appreciate one as a gift.) Before obtaining it, I’d had burned through a couple of small cheap compressors that were powered from the from the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket. They took a long time to get a tire from flat to drivable.

    The tank has enough capacity to get tire from flat to fully inflated, and does so very quickly because it delivers its payload starting at 120 psi. Fortunately she lives nearby, so when I received her frantic text message, “Daddy!!! I have to be at work in 30 minutes. Car has a flat tire!” it was no problem. We traded vehicles and I drove hers home, stopping along the way to recharge the tank.

  34. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    #17 I bought the tank as a gift for myself long ago. (I’m smart enough to know a young woman would not appreciate one as a gift.) Before obtaining it, I’d had burned through a couple of small cheap compressors that were powered from the from the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket. They took a long time to get a tire from flat to drivable.

    The tank has enough capacity to get tire from flat to fully inflated, and does so very quickly because it delivers its payload starting at 120 psi. Fortunately she lives nearby, so when I received her frantic text message, “Daddy!!! I have to be at work in 30 minutes. Car has a flat tire!” it was no problem. We traded vehicles and I drove hers home, stopping along the way to recharge the tank.

  35. meglettx Avatar
    meglettx

    Global Warming – just another progressive global wealth redistribution scam from the same folks that brought you the 3M Presidency.

  36. Lawrence Avatar
    Lawrence

    Global Warming – just another progressive global wealth redistribution scam from the same folks that brought you the 3M Presidency.

  37. Dooood Avatar
    Dooood

    I posted this in the wrong thread earlier.

    The Pope went on vacation for a few days to visit the rugged mountains of Alaska . He was cruising along the campground in the Pope Mobile when he heard a frantic commotion just at the edge of the woods. He found a helpless Democrat wearing shorts, sandals, a Vote for Obama hat and a Save the Trees t-shirt. The man was screaming and struggling frantically, thrashing all about and trying to free himself from the grasp of a 10-foot grizzly bear.

    As the Pope watched in horror, a group of Republican loggers wearing Go Sarah shirts came racing up. One quickly fired a 44 Magnum slug right into the bear’s chest. The two other men pulled the semiconscious Democrat from the bear’s grasp. Then using baseball bats, the three loggers finished off the bear. Two of the men dragged the dead grizzly onto the bed of their pickup truck while the other tenderly placed the injured Democrat in the back seat.

    As they began to leave, the Pope summoned all of them men over to him. “I give you my blessing for your brave actions!” he proudly proclaimed. “I have heard there was bitter hatred between Republican loggers and Democratic environmental activists, but now I’ve seen with my own eyes that this is not true.”

    As the Pope drove off, one logger asked his buddies, “Who the heck was that guy?”

    “Dude, that was was the Pope,” another replied. “He’s in direct contact with Heaven and has access to all wisdom.”

    “Well,” the logger said, “he may have access to all wisdom, but he doesn’t know squat about bear hunting! By the way, is the bait still alive or do we need to go down to California and get another one?”

    HT: David Zincavage

  38. Texpat Avatar
    Texpat

    I posted this in the wrong thread earlier.

    The Pope went on vacation for a few days to visit the rugged mountains of Alaska . He was cruising along the campground in the Pope Mobile when he heard a frantic commotion just at the edge of the woods. He found a helpless Democrat wearing shorts, sandals, a Vote for Obama hat and a Save the Trees t-shirt. The man was screaming and struggling frantically, thrashing all about and trying to free himself from the grasp of a 10-foot grizzly bear.

    As the Pope watched in horror, a group of Republican loggers wearing Go Sarah shirts came racing up. One quickly fired a 44 Magnum slug right into the bear’s chest. The two other men pulled the semiconscious Democrat from the bear’s grasp. Then using baseball bats, the three loggers finished off the bear. Two of the men dragged the dead grizzly onto the bed of their pickup truck while the other tenderly placed the injured Democrat in the back seat.

    As they began to leave, the Pope summoned all of them men over to him. “I give you my blessing for your brave actions!” he proudly proclaimed. “I have heard there was bitter hatred between Republican loggers and Democratic environmental activists, but now I’ve seen with my own eyes that this is not true.”

    As the Pope drove off, one logger asked his buddies, “Who the heck was that guy?”

    “Dude, that was was the Pope,” another replied. “He’s in direct contact with Heaven and has access to all wisdom.”

    “Well,” the logger said, “he may have access to all wisdom, but he doesn’t know squat about bear hunting! By the way, is the bait still alive or do we need to go down to California and get another one?”

    HT: David Zincavage

  39. Dooood Avatar
    Dooood

    A suspicious looking Santa Claus is interviewed on Latma TV News in Israel and they find he has a musical message for the world:

    Jihad Bells !

  40. Texpat Avatar
    Texpat

    A suspicious looking Santa Claus is interviewed on Latma TV News in Israel and they find he has a musical message for the world:

    Jihad Bells !

  41. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    😆

  42. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    😆

  43. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    Tedtam;

    Scrath my invite to have Hubby contact me. Mrs. Darren did NOT like her Christmas gift. 😕 Since I bought it when I could budget it in it’s been wel over 30 days to return it. I’m hoping I can at least get in store credit (Sam’s club).

  44. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    Tedtam;

    Scrath my invite to have Hubby contact me. Mrs. Darren did NOT like her Christmas gift. 😕 Since I bought it when I could budget it in it’s been wel over 30 days to return it. I’m hoping I can at least get in store credit (Sam’s club).

  45. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    My 22 was for #20. I have not seen #21’s link.

  46. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    My 22 was for #20. I have not seen #21’s link.

  47. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    OK, Jihad Bells is pretty funny as well. 🙂

  48. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    OK, Jihad Bells is pretty funny as well. 🙂

  49. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    23 Darren says:
    December 25, 2010 at 3:13 pm
    Tedtam;

    Scrath my invite to have Hubby contact me. Mrs. Darren did NOT like her Christmas gift. Since I bought it when I could budget it in it’s been wel over 30 days to return it. I’m hoping I can at least get in store credit (Sam’s club).

    You could try the “It could have been worse, this was my first choice.” Strategy.

  50. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    23 Darren says:
    December 25, 2010 at 3:13 pm
    Tedtam;

    Scrath my invite to have Hubby contact me. Mrs. Darren did NOT like her Christmas gift. Since I bought it when I could budget it in it’s been wel over 30 days to return it. I’m hoping I can at least get in store credit (Sam’s club).

    You could try the “It could have been worse, this was my first choice.” Strategy.

  51. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    We had done a couple of minutes of animation in the documentary but people said, “You can’t have kids who talk like adults.” We had given up, but when Coca-Cola called after the TIME cover they asked if we’d ever thought of doing a Christmas show and I lied and said, “Oh, absolutely.” So they asked us to send them an outline on Monday. I called Schulz on the phone and said, “I think I just sold ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas,’” and he said, “What’s that?” and I told him, “It’s something you’re going to write tomorrow.”

    When we first did the Christmas special the network thought it was awful. There was a TIME Magazine writer who wanted to see it and they told me that I’d better not let him see it, but I said, “It’ll be worse if we don’t.” So I sit in the room alone with the TIME magazine critic as he watches and he doesn’t say a word, doesn’t take any notes, gets up and leaves. I said, “Oh my God, we’re dead.” Two days later the review came out and it was a whole page calling it the greatest cartoon ever made. I remember it saying, “it’s going to run for 100 years.” TIME Magazine saved our butts. Twice.

    Interview with ‘Charlie Brown Christmas’ Producer Lee Mendelson

  52. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    We had done a couple of minutes of animation in the documentary but people said, “You can’t have kids who talk like adults.” We had given up, but when Coca-Cola called after the TIME cover they asked if we’d ever thought of doing a Christmas show and I lied and said, “Oh, absolutely.” So they asked us to send them an outline on Monday. I called Schulz on the phone and said, “I think I just sold ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas,’” and he said, “What’s that?” and I told him, “It’s something you’re going to write tomorrow.”

    When we first did the Christmas special the network thought it was awful. There was a TIME Magazine writer who wanted to see it and they told me that I’d better not let him see it, but I said, “It’ll be worse if we don’t.” So I sit in the room alone with the TIME magazine critic as he watches and he doesn’t say a word, doesn’t take any notes, gets up and leaves. I said, “Oh my God, we’re dead.” Two days later the review came out and it was a whole page calling it the greatest cartoon ever made. I remember it saying, “it’s going to run for 100 years.” TIME Magazine saved our butts. Twice.

    Interview with ‘Charlie Brown Christmas’ Producer Lee Mendelson

  53. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    Sarge;

    Well, at least she could find things. 🙂

  54. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    Sarge;

    Well, at least she could find things. 🙂

  55. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    Christmas comedy:

    “The one thing women don’t want to find in their stockings on Christmas morning is their husband.” — Joan Rivers

    “The Supreme Court has ruled that they cannot have a nativity scene in Washington, D.C. This wasn’t for any religious reasons. They couldn’t find three wise men and a virgin.” — Jay Leno

    “Santa is very jolly because he knows where all the bad girls live.” — Dennis Miller

    And then there’s this little ditty from my second favorite pair of funny cute girls.

    It’s the thought that counts. Over the years, we’ve been de-commercializing Christmas in my family and spending less on gifts. This year I gave each daughter a super-sized Hershey bar with a Starbucks card and a bit of cash hidden under the wrapper. Girls like chocolate (duh!) and since they’re increasingly on their own financially, I figure they can better decide how to spend the money than I could.

  56. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    Christmas comedy:

    “The one thing women don’t want to find in their stockings on Christmas morning is their husband.” — Joan Rivers

    “The Supreme Court has ruled that they cannot have a nativity scene in Washington, D.C. This wasn’t for any religious reasons. They couldn’t find three wise men and a virgin.” — Jay Leno

    “Santa is very jolly because he knows where all the bad girls live.” — Dennis Miller

    And then there’s this little ditty from my second favorite pair of funny cute girls.

    It’s the thought that counts. Over the years, we’ve been de-commercializing Christmas in my family and spending less on gifts. This year I gave each daughter a super-sized Hershey bar with a Starbucks card and a bit of cash hidden under the wrapper. Girls like chocolate (duh!) and since they’re increasingly on their own financially, I figure they can better decide how to spend the money than I could.

  57. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    Heading out to go see True Grit.

    I have high hopes for this version. The Coen brothers are quality directors who are reportedly staying as true to the novel as they possibly can get. They are using an actual 14 year old girl to portray a 14 year old girl, and there are rumors that her performance is good enough to earn a Supporting Actress Oscar nomination. Glenn Campbell absolutely ruined the orignal movie version for me with his wooden acting and apparent lack of understanding of the period, Matt Damon seems to be perfect for the role of a dashing and slightly self absorbed Texas Ranger. My only reservation is Jeff Bridges. I have no doubt about his acting ability, as that is substantial, but The Duke put such a stamp on that role that it may be difficult to overcome. His task is analgous to an actor taking on Bogie’s role in a remake of Casablanca. It has to be dead on perfect to even be acceptable, and it cannot be an imitation lest it become parody.

    Will report back later.

  58. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    Heading out to go see True Grit.

    I have high hopes for this version. The Coen brothers are quality directors who are reportedly staying as true to the novel as they possibly can get. They are using an actual 14 year old girl to portray a 14 year old girl, and there are rumors that her performance is good enough to earn a Supporting Actress Oscar nomination. Glenn Campbell absolutely ruined the orignal movie version for me with his wooden acting and apparent lack of understanding of the period, Matt Damon seems to be perfect for the role of a dashing and slightly self absorbed Texas Ranger. My only reservation is Jeff Bridges. I have no doubt about his acting ability, as that is substantial, but The Duke put such a stamp on that role that it may be difficult to overcome. His task is analgous to an actor taking on Bogie’s role in a remake of Casablanca. It has to be dead on perfect to even be acceptable, and it cannot be an imitation lest it become parody.

    Will report back later.

  59. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #19 Lawrence

    the 3M Presidency

    Have you explained what this means, and I missed it?

  60. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #19 Lawrence

    the 3M Presidency

    Have you explained what this means, and I missed it?

  61. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #30 Sarge

    My first reaction on hearing of almost any film remake is WHY? But Michael Medved gave the new True Grit a very good review.

  62. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #30 Sarge

    My first reaction on hearing of almost any film remake is WHY? But Michael Medved gave the new True Grit a very good review.

  63. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    Is 3M known for anything other than Scotch tape?

  64. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    Is 3M known for anything other than Scotch tape?

  65. meglettx Avatar
    meglettx

    mharper69 – it is blog appropriate terminology for my description of the Obamanoma.

    At LST, it was deemed inappropriate and out of respect for the Hammer, I will refrain.

  66. Lawrence Avatar
    Lawrence

    mharper69 – it is blog appropriate terminology for my description of the Obamanoma.

    At LST, it was deemed inappropriate and out of respect for the Hammer, I will refrain.

  67. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    bob #29;

    and since they’re increasingly on their own financially, I figure they can better decide how to spend the money than I could.

    Dude, with that attitude, you’ll never make it in government. 😉

  68. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    bob #29;

    and since they’re increasingly on their own financially, I figure they can better decide how to spend the money than I could.

    Dude, with that attitude, you’ll never make it in government. 😉

  69. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    mharper et al;

    I created a post on my own blog which shows all the Christmas cards my family and I ever created. ENJOY!

  70. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    mharper et al;

    I created a post on my own blog which shows all the Christmas cards my family and I ever created. ENJOY!

  71. texanadian Avatar
    texanadian

    Merry Christmas everyone! We had a blessed day, the kids showed up around noon, with their spouses and I was working on the grub. We ate about 2 PM, a little early for us because we usually eat around 3-4 on Thanksgiving/Christmas, but the kids had in-laws’ to visit. We had honey baked ham, butter beans, yeller squash, turnips, fried okree, macaroni and cheese, rice, candid sweet taters and rolls. Daughter-in-Law loved the taters, of course She likes almost anything that I like. When we got through, the okra and macaroni were gone, there was about one helping of greens, and about 1/2 the taters and squash. We cooked a lot of butter beans and rice so we had plenty of it left. We did little damage to the 12 Lb ham so the kids took some home. Daughter-in-Law also took home some taters and a slice of Key Lime Pie. Daughter took home the rest of the squash, (Her favorite). After we ate, we opened presents and everyone headed out about 5PM.Yes, thank you Lord, life is good. 😀

  72. Super Dave Avatar
    Super Dave

    Merry Christmas everyone! We had a blessed day, the kids showed up around noon, with their spouses and I was working on the grub. We ate about 2 PM, a little early for us because we usually eat around 3-4 on Thanksgiving/Christmas, but the kids had in-laws’ to visit. We had honey baked ham, butter beans, yeller squash, turnips, fried okree, macaroni and cheese, rice, candid sweet taters and rolls. Daughter-in-Law loved the taters, of course She likes almost anything that I like. When we got through, the okra and macaroni were gone, there was about one helping of greens, and about 1/2 the taters and squash. We cooked a lot of butter beans and rice so we had plenty of it left. We did little damage to the 12 Lb ham so the kids took some home. Daughter-in-Law also took home some taters and a slice of Key Lime Pie. Daughter took home the rest of the squash, (Her favorite). After we ate, we opened presents and everyone headed out about 5PM.Yes, thank you Lord, life is good. 😀

  73. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #34 Can someone please give me a hint what 3M means?

  74. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #34 Can someone please give me a hint what 3M means?

  75. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    Well, the lasagna was widely acclaimed a success. With lots of help in the kitchen, the dishes didn’t back up on us. I packed Handsome Son some take-home since he had to work today. There were a multitude of wonderful desserts, including the chocolate covered cherries, of which I ate way too many. It was good to see the nieces and nephews and their offspring. Then I grabbed a hot pan and burned my fingers. Kinda screwed up the day, but I grabbed a cloth full of ice and enjoyed the gift-giving part of the day. I actually received some gifts today; most years I get bupkus. Not that receiving gifts are important, but it is nice to be on the receiving end every now and then.

    I found it a little unnerving how much some of my nieces and nephews have grown since I saw them last.

    Good times.

  76. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    Well, the lasagna was widely acclaimed a success. With lots of help in the kitchen, the dishes didn’t back up on us. I packed Handsome Son some take-home since he had to work today. There were a multitude of wonderful desserts, including the chocolate covered cherries, of which I ate way too many. It was good to see the nieces and nephews and their offspring. Then I grabbed a hot pan and burned my fingers. Kinda screwed up the day, but I grabbed a cloth full of ice and enjoyed the gift-giving part of the day. I actually received some gifts today; most years I get bupkus. Not that receiving gifts are important, but it is nice to be on the receiving end every now and then.

    I found it a little unnerving how much some of my nieces and nephews have grown since I saw them last.

    Good times.

  77. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    M42, welcome to the curiosity club. I too am unfamiliar with the term, and in this instance google was not my friend.

    Doing a little contextual reverse engineering, I can offer a couple of three guesses.

    Muslim
    Marxist
    …

  78. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    M42, welcome to the curiosity club. I too am unfamiliar with the term, and in this instance google was not my friend.

    Doing a little contextual reverse engineering, I can offer a couple of three guesses.

    Muslim
    Marxist
    …

  79. Katfish Avatar
    Katfish

    Moonbat?

  80. wagonburner Avatar
    wagonburner

    Moonbat?

  81. Katfish Avatar
    Katfish

    I betcha someone would get in serious trouble over this today:

  82. wagonburner Avatar
    wagonburner

    I betcha someone would get in serious trouble over this today:

  83. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #42 Pyro

    There probably isn’t anyone left at NASA who would be thus inclined. They’re all assigned to look for ways that Islam has contributed to scientific advances.

  84. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #42 Pyro

    There probably isn’t anyone left at NASA who would be thus inclined. They’re all assigned to look for ways that Islam has contributed to scientific advances.

  85. texanadian Avatar
    texanadian

    There probably isn’t anyone left at NASA who would be thus inclined. They’re all assigned to look for ways that Islam has contributed to scientific advances.

    I beg to Differ,…I work @ NASA and I apporve of this message…BUTT I’m the ROUGE that shakes up the safety meetings because I have COMMON SENSE! 😉

  86. Super Dave Avatar
    Super Dave

    There probably isn’t anyone left at NASA who would be thus inclined. They’re all assigned to look for ways that Islam has contributed to scientific advances.

    I beg to Differ,…I work @ NASA and I apporve of this message…BUTT I’m the ROUGE that shakes up the safety meetings because I have COMMON SENSE! 😉

  87. texanadian Avatar
    texanadian

    Doing a little contextual reverse engineering, I can offer a couple of three guesses.

    Muslim
    Marxist
    … Maxipad? 😉

  88. Super Dave Avatar
    Super Dave

    Doing a little contextual reverse engineering, I can offer a couple of three guesses.

    Muslim
    Marxist
    … Maxipad? 😉

  89. Katfish Avatar
    Katfish

    I’m the ROUGE that shakes up the safety meetings because

    … you’re in drag? 😉

  90. wagonburner Avatar
    wagonburner

    I’m the ROUGE that shakes up the safety meetings because

    … you’re in drag? 😉

  91. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    Spouse and I watched this transmission that Christmas Eve. Most moving and memorable now as it was then. Political Correctness is an aberration whose time has come to join the dustbin of history, before it consumes our country as the suicide pact that it is.

  92. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    Spouse and I watched this transmission that Christmas Eve. Most moving and memorable now as it was then. Political Correctness is an aberration whose time has come to join the dustbin of history, before it consumes our country as the suicide pact that it is.

  93. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    #41 & 45, there’s bound to be a way to work a couple of gay bears wearing clown suits singing show tune in to the 3M definition.

    I know you can do it.

  94. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    #41 & 45, there’s bound to be a way to work a couple of gay bears wearing clown suits singing show tune in to the 3M definition.

    I know you can do it.

  95. texanadian Avatar
    texanadian

    wagonburner,…Dang Dammit you always catch it.

    I’m the ROUGE ROGUE that shakes up the safety meetings because

    My dang fingers type faster than my old brain can think. 😉

  96. Super Dave Avatar
    Super Dave

    wagonburner,…Dang Dammit you always catch it.

    I’m the ROUGE ROGUE that shakes up the safety meetings because

    My dang fingers type faster than my old brain can think. 😉

  97. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #49 SD

    I mentally translated the typo as I read your comment, but I enjoyed Pyro’s note anyway. I also was thinking you’d be shaking up the safety meetings if you were wearing rouge…

  98. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #49 SD

    I mentally translated the typo as I read your comment, but I enjoyed Pyro’s note anyway. I also was thinking you’d be shaking up the safety meetings if you were wearing rouge…

  99. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    The 3M has to be obscene because otherwise there’d be no reason to suppress it. I can only think of one obscene word that starts with M but don’t see any way to connect that to 3M.

  100. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    The 3M has to be obscene because otherwise there’d be no reason to suppress it. I can only think of one obscene word that starts with M but don’t see any way to connect that to 3M.

  101. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    If you haven’t toured Darren’s family art gallery at the link in #36, I recommend it.

    Darren, I tried to post there with my WordPress user name, but it doesn’t seem to consider me logged in and thus does not save the comment. Maybe you didn’t want us to be able to comment…

  102. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    If you haven’t toured Darren’s family art gallery at the link in #36, I recommend it.

    Darren, I tried to post there with my WordPress user name, but it doesn’t seem to consider me logged in and thus does not save the comment. Maybe you didn’t want us to be able to comment…

  103. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    Try “moron”

  104. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    Try “moron”

  105. Super Dave Avatar
    Super Dave

    Well, now that Santa has left the building, I suppose we can all wait with baited breath for someone to tell us what the greatest stories of 2010 were or what the greatest stories of 2011 will be. Can’t wait.
    /snark off/

  106. El Gordo Avatar
    El Gordo

    Well, now that Santa has left the building, I suppose we can all wait with baited breath for someone to tell us what the greatest stories of 2010 were or what the greatest stories of 2011 will be. Can’t wait.
    /snark off/

  107. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    El Gordo,

    I am surprised you didn’t claim the logical First this morning…

    I saw a link somewhere yesterday to “Top 10 Stories of 2010” but I didn’t follow up on it.

  108. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    El Gordo,

    I am surprised you didn’t claim the logical First this morning…

    I saw a link somewhere yesterday to “Top 10 Stories of 2010” but I didn’t follow up on it.

  109. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    G’Morning all

    Best story of 2010

    Oldest son was in charge of dinner. He fixed a whole beef loin, pork loin and leg of lamb with mint sauce. mmmm…mmmmm…….mmmm
    I got a USMC NCO sword.

    Don’t get any better than that.

    Hope everyone else had a great a day as me.

  110. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    G’Morning all

    Best story of 2010

    Oldest son was in charge of dinner. He fixed a whole beef loin, pork loin and leg of lamb with mint sauce. mmmm…mmmmm…….mmmm
    I got a USMC NCO sword.

    Don’t get any better than that.

    Hope everyone else had a great a day as me.

  111. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    Post Merry Christmas to all!

    We had a wonderful Christmas, Sweetie’s family here Christmas Eve night, our little family here all day yesterday for Christmas and dinner.

    Tried my hand at frying a turkey, did one several years ago that was not done enough. I wince at piercing any sizzling hot piece of meat, but I had to know if it was done. Sure enough, the thermometer showed the bird needed another 20 degrees. I don’t know why such precise heating instructions can be so off (for me anyway). Another 10 minutes in the peanut oil and voila!, a perfect 180 degrees, and it was a huge hit.

    Served with Sweetie’s famous 5 or 7 cheese mac and cheese (plus a 1/2 cup of melted butter on top to complete the cardiac), dressing, yams and corn casserole, it was the perfect meal.

  112. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    Post Merry Christmas to all!

    We had a wonderful Christmas, Sweetie’s family here Christmas Eve night, our little family here all day yesterday for Christmas and dinner.

    Tried my hand at frying a turkey, did one several years ago that was not done enough. I wince at piercing any sizzling hot piece of meat, but I had to know if it was done. Sure enough, the thermometer showed the bird needed another 20 degrees. I don’t know why such precise heating instructions can be so off (for me anyway). Another 10 minutes in the peanut oil and voila!, a perfect 180 degrees, and it was a huge hit.

    Served with Sweetie’s famous 5 or 7 cheese mac and cheese (plus a 1/2 cup of melted butter on top to complete the cardiac), dressing, yams and corn casserole, it was the perfect meal.

  113. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    Youngest son got me an 8″ subwoofer to complete my 6 yr old unfinished poor-boy home theater. I ‘ve needing to do some tweaking to it anyway so I’ll be spending the afternoon setting it all up and tuning. Like a little boy on Christmas day I’ll be!

  114. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    Youngest son got me an 8″ subwoofer to complete my 6 yr old unfinished poor-boy home theater. I ‘ve needing to do some tweaking to it anyway so I’ll be spending the afternoon setting it all up and tuning. Like a little boy on Christmas day I’ll be!

  115. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    I want to extend my heartfelt sympathies to all those who are being snowed in by this blast of man-made global warming.

  116. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    I want to extend my heartfelt sympathies to all those who are being snowed in by this blast of man-made global warming.

  117. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    Crank up the SUV’s, the chillrens are freezing!

  118. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    Crank up the SUV’s, the chillrens are freezing!

  119. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    Sigh, my post was swallowed up by the “You must be logged in to comment” command.
    Bad Word Press, bad Word Press. Stand in the corner.

  120. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    Sigh, my post was swallowed up by the “You must be logged in to comment” command.
    Bad Word Press, bad Word Press. Stand in the corner.

  121. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    Ms. Adee, it did it to me this morning also, but my post went up anyway.

  122. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    Ms. Adee, it did it to me this morning also, but my post went up anyway.

  123. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    Here’s an athlete that is a true role model for a change.

    You couldn’t help but be struck by the painful contrast between the two boys: The robust athlete cradling the pale, helpless child; the young man preparing to go out into the world carrying someone who never will.

    It’s a comparison lost on nobody, least of all Rudy himself.

    “Can I ask you something?’’ he said, sitting in the Parkers’ living room after Sammy was asleep. “Is it OK if this article is more about Sam than me?’’

    Why?

    “He’s done more for me than I’ve done for him,’’ Rudy said. “There are times when I don’t want to go to practice, and then I look at Sam. By God’s grace, I can do what I’m doing, so I should keep it up. I’ve never been one to complain a lot, but just seeing Sam reaffirms everything, you know?

  124. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    Here’s an athlete that is a true role model for a change.

    You couldn’t help but be struck by the painful contrast between the two boys: The robust athlete cradling the pale, helpless child; the young man preparing to go out into the world carrying someone who never will.

    It’s a comparison lost on nobody, least of all Rudy himself.

    “Can I ask you something?’’ he said, sitting in the Parkers’ living room after Sammy was asleep. “Is it OK if this article is more about Sam than me?’’

    Why?

    “He’s done more for me than I’ve done for him,’’ Rudy said. “There are times when I don’t want to go to practice, and then I look at Sam. By God’s grace, I can do what I’m doing, so I should keep it up. I’ve never been one to complain a lot, but just seeing Sam reaffirms everything, you know?

  125. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    True Grit:

    Fans of the original John Wayne movie will only be disappointed by the fact that he never had the chance to appear in the more superior of the two movies. There is nothing wrong with Jeff Bridges’ portrayal of Rooster Cogburn, but it is more subdued than the more lusty and playful character that The Duke created, and I find that I missed him as Rooster.

    The Coen brothers kept everything that was good about the original, and where they did change things, it was for the better. The original films sets were authentic, but the Fort Smith, Arkansas we see here is closer to the town of 1878 than that in the original film. It is more sprawling and gives a better portrayal of a large and important town on the frontier. Costumes and weaponry are authentic, and if there were any glaring anachronisms, I was too busy enjoying the film to notice. The dialog is authentic to the period, as was the original film, and many of the lines are nearly identical.

    A bigger technical improvement, at least for me, is the decision by the directors to film in terrain that more closely matches that where the story takes place (the orginal was filmed in the Colorado Rockies). It may not bug folks who are not familiar with the terrain of Eastern and Northeastern Oklahoma, but to those who are, those mountains in the orignal just got in the way. Its better to have the contrast of sweeping vistas of open prairie, post oak forests, and rocky canyons to display the nature and inherent difficulties in the pursuit of Ned Pepper faced by the characters in the movie. The film was shot in Blanco and Granger, Texas and headquartered in Austin.

    Those familiar with the original movie will find few surprises for most of the film. As noted, some of the dialog is nearly identical, and there is little variance from the way the plot develops, but the characters are more richly done and one walks away with a better understanding of the personality dynamics at play here and a better appreciation of the story. Towards the end there are some unexpected twists that I will not spoil here. Suffice it to say that the ending is closer to that of the novel and rings more true to life than the original did. You do get a better understanding of life on the frontier from this version than you did from the original.

    There are many things that make this film superior to the original, but the biggest factor is the casting of Matt Damon as LeBeuf, the Texas Ranger in pursuit of the same miscreant that Rooster Cogburn and the Mattie Ross are. With the utterance of a few lines of dialog, particularly those from the original many are familiar with, we can truly appreciate the damage Glenn Campbell did to the first film, and the vast improvement Damon brings. Campbell was merely reciting lines—-badly—while Damon creates a beleivable and sympathetic character whom we come to respect.

    Damon’s character plays well off of the superbly acted portrayal of Mattie Ross by newcomer Hailee Steinfeld. While it does help that she is of the same age as Mattie (14), she does a superb job of displaying the spunk and determination of the girl who seeks and then hires a man with “True Grit” to track down the killer of her father and bring him to justice.

    This is a story of redemption and lessons learned when we misjudge people. It is extremely well done and steeps us richly in the period. You may find yourself speaking in the idiom of the time for an hour or so after leaving the film, and you will come to know three very unique and significant people.

    Go and see this flick, and don’t wait to see it at home delivered by Netflicks.

    I just hope they don’t make a sequel.

  126. Sarge Avatar
    Sarge

    True Grit:

    Fans of the original John Wayne movie will only be disappointed by the fact that he never had the chance to appear in the more superior of the two movies. There is nothing wrong with Jeff Bridges’ portrayal of Rooster Cogburn, but it is more subdued than the more lusty and playful character that The Duke created, and I find that I missed him as Rooster.

    The Coen brothers kept everything that was good about the original, and where they did change things, it was for the better. The original films sets were authentic, but the Fort Smith, Arkansas we see here is closer to the town of 1878 than that in the original film. It is more sprawling and gives a better portrayal of a large and important town on the frontier. Costumes and weaponry are authentic, and if there were any glaring anachronisms, I was too busy enjoying the film to notice. The dialog is authentic to the period, as was the original film, and many of the lines are nearly identical.

    A bigger technical improvement, at least for me, is the decision by the directors to film in terrain that more closely matches that where the story takes place (the orginal was filmed in the Colorado Rockies). It may not bug folks who are not familiar with the terrain of Eastern and Northeastern Oklahoma, but to those who are, those mountains in the orignal just got in the way. Its better to have the contrast of sweeping vistas of open prairie, post oak forests, and rocky canyons to display the nature and inherent difficulties in the pursuit of Ned Pepper faced by the characters in the movie. The film was shot in Blanco and Granger, Texas and headquartered in Austin.

    Those familiar with the original movie will find few surprises for most of the film. As noted, some of the dialog is nearly identical, and there is little variance from the way the plot develops, but the characters are more richly done and one walks away with a better understanding of the personality dynamics at play here and a better appreciation of the story. Towards the end there are some unexpected twists that I will not spoil here. Suffice it to say that the ending is closer to that of the novel and rings more true to life than the original did. You do get a better understanding of life on the frontier from this version than you did from the original.

    There are many things that make this film superior to the original, but the biggest factor is the casting of Matt Damon as LeBeuf, the Texas Ranger in pursuit of the same miscreant that Rooster Cogburn and the Mattie Ross are. With the utterance of a few lines of dialog, particularly those from the original many are familiar with, we can truly appreciate the damage Glenn Campbell did to the first film, and the vast improvement Damon brings. Campbell was merely reciting lines—-badly—while Damon creates a beleivable and sympathetic character whom we come to respect.

    Damon’s character plays well off of the superbly acted portrayal of Mattie Ross by newcomer Hailee Steinfeld. While it does help that she is of the same age as Mattie (14), she does a superb job of displaying the spunk and determination of the girl who seeks and then hires a man with “True Grit” to track down the killer of her father and bring him to justice.

    This is a story of redemption and lessons learned when we misjudge people. It is extremely well done and steeps us richly in the period. You may find yourself speaking in the idiom of the time for an hour or so after leaving the film, and you will come to know three very unique and significant people.

    Go and see this flick, and don’t wait to see it at home delivered by Netflicks.

    I just hope they don’t make a sequel.

  127. Simple Simon Avatar
    Simple Simon

    64 Sarge,

    I have not seen the newest version of True Grit and had not planned on doing so until I read your review.

    I enjoyed the first and your comments about Glen Campbell’s part were dead on target. I have often felt that he dragged the movie down with his stilted lines.

    The Duke’s last movies were some of his best and worst. “The Shootist” and “The Cowboys” were two that I thought were better than True Grit, but what do I know? He made two formula “Cop” movies in this period that were really forgettable.

    Have a good holiday and take care of yourself.

    Simple

  128. Simple Simon Avatar
    Simple Simon

    64 Sarge,

    I have not seen the newest version of True Grit and had not planned on doing so until I read your review.

    I enjoyed the first and your comments about Glen Campbell’s part were dead on target. I have often felt that he dragged the movie down with his stilted lines.

    The Duke’s last movies were some of his best and worst. “The Shootist” and “The Cowboys” were two that I thought were better than True Grit, but what do I know? He made two formula “Cop” movies in this period that were really forgettable.

    Have a good holiday and take care of yourself.

    Simple

  129. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    mharper;

    Thanks or trying to post there. truth is the “blogspot” site confuses me too. The only reason I’m able to post on my sister’s site is because I log onto my own site and it automatically carries that loggin to their site.

    I’m glad you enjoyed it. We have a lot of fun creating those cards.

  130. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    mharper;

    Thanks or trying to post there. truth is the “blogspot” site confuses me too. The only reason I’m able to post on my sister’s site is because I log onto my own site and it automatically carries that loggin to their site.

    I’m glad you enjoyed it. We have a lot of fun creating those cards.

  131. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    Tedtam #53;

    Are you saying “3M” means “moron” or that mharper’s loggin info for my site should be “moron”? 😉

  132. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    Tedtam #53;

    Are you saying “3M” means “moron” or that mharper’s loggin info for my site should be “moron”? 😉

  133. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    “Moron” may be the third “M” in 3M.

  134. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    “Moron” may be the third “M” in 3M.

  135. Simple Simon Avatar
    Simple Simon

    Sarge,

    The subject of the Duke’s movies came up at our family Christmas party. There was always violence in the Duke’s movies, but when he shot or hit someone; it was because they evil and deserved a comeuppance. Sadly, movies today have lost that direction and violence and car crashes are done for the shock factor to the audience.

    I like my movies heroes to set the world right and not try to destroy it.

    Getting too old for a lot of this stuff and feeling more and more out of step with society these days.

    Simple

  136. Simple Simon Avatar
    Simple Simon

    Sarge,

    The subject of the Duke’s movies came up at our family Christmas party. There was always violence in the Duke’s movies, but when he shot or hit someone; it was because they evil and deserved a comeuppance. Sadly, movies today have lost that direction and violence and car crashes are done for the shock factor to the audience.

    I like my movies heroes to set the world right and not try to destroy it.

    Getting too old for a lot of this stuff and feeling more and more out of step with society these days.

    Simple

  137. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    Sarge, good review. You must have watched the John Wayne version recently to be able to compare so precisely. I haven’t seen it in decades and only remember bits of it. If I decide to go see the new one, I will not rent and watch the old one either before or after — I’ll just let the new one stand on its own.

  138. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    Sarge, good review. You must have watched the John Wayne version recently to be able to compare so precisely. I haven’t seen it in decades and only remember bits of it. If I decide to go see the new one, I will not rent and watch the old one either before or after — I’ll just let the new one stand on its own.

  139. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    Super Dave #37;

    Daughter-in-Law loved the taters, of course She likes almost anything that I like.

    Sounds like your son married well. 😉

  140. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    Super Dave #37;

    Daughter-in-Law loved the taters, of course She likes almost anything that I like.

    Sounds like your son married well. 😉

  141. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #68 TT

    the third “M” in 3M

    A little birdie confided in me what the 3rd M is. But then I was sworn to secrecy.

  142. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #68 TT

    the third “M” in 3M

    A little birdie confided in me what the 3rd M is. But then I was sworn to secrecy.

  143. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    It’s hard to believe that there are just 5 more days left in 2010. Time flies when you’re tossing clocks.

  144. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    It’s hard to believe that there are just 5 more days left in 2010. Time flies when you’re tossing clocks.

  145. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    The subwoofer is a woofin’ by george, a little too much actually. I ran it thru the Pioneer automated calibration but I’ll have to go in and tweak later. Right now enjoying the booming voice of Joaquin Phoenix portraying Johnny Cash in Walk The Line.

  146. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    The subwoofer is a woofin’ by george, a little too much actually. I ran it thru the Pioneer automated calibration but I’ll have to go in and tweak later. Right now enjoying the booming voice of Joaquin Phoenix portraying Johnny Cash in Walk The Line.

  147. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    And if the boy don’t come out and make me turn it down, I’ll play it again. 😛

  148. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    And if the boy don’t come out and make me turn it down, I’ll play it again. 😛

  149. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    I was awake most of the night with a po’ sick kitty that has been to her vet 3 times in the last 2 weeks for respriratory congestion. She stopped eating this weekend. She got quiet several times late last night/wee hours this morning, causing me to think she might have died in her sleep. We took her to Gulf Coast clinic’s ER early this morning and got her hydrated and medicated and some prescription cat food. She’s had one meal today and so have I — turkey left-overs for me, not cat food.

    I had a 3-hour nap this afternoon and then had to go over to the pool and check the leaf baskets. I found them full to bursting after the Chistmas Eve thunder storms brought down all the last of the fall leaves at our rec area. Man, it’s tough to stick your hand down into a filter basket of freezing cold water, feeling for the lift handle.

    Not Winter at Valley Forge by a long shot, but still a rougher 24 hours than I am used to these days.

  150. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    I was awake most of the night with a po’ sick kitty that has been to her vet 3 times in the last 2 weeks for respriratory congestion. She stopped eating this weekend. She got quiet several times late last night/wee hours this morning, causing me to think she might have died in her sleep. We took her to Gulf Coast clinic’s ER early this morning and got her hydrated and medicated and some prescription cat food. She’s had one meal today and so have I — turkey left-overs for me, not cat food.

    I had a 3-hour nap this afternoon and then had to go over to the pool and check the leaf baskets. I found them full to bursting after the Chistmas Eve thunder storms brought down all the last of the fall leaves at our rec area. Man, it’s tough to stick your hand down into a filter basket of freezing cold water, feeling for the lift handle.

    Not Winter at Valley Forge by a long shot, but still a rougher 24 hours than I am used to these days.

  151. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    M42, good luck with your kitty. She’s lucky to have folks like you to care for her.

  152. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    M42, good luck with your kitty. She’s lucky to have folks like you to care for her.

  153. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    Thanks, Bob. We just gave her a light meal & her evening meds. Her appetite has picked up already. GCVS is the best place on the planet to treat a sick animal.

  154. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    Thanks, Bob. We just gave her a light meal & her evening meds. Her appetite has picked up already. GCVS is the best place on the planet to treat a sick animal.

  155. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    Man, it’s tough to stick your hand down into a filter basket

    Having a pool in the woods you never know what you’re going to be greeted with, generally a bull frog happy as heck to be freed.

  156. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    Man, it’s tough to stick your hand down into a filter basket

    Having a pool in the woods you never know what you’re going to be greeted with, generally a bull frog happy as heck to be freed.

  157. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    GJT #74;

    Have you adjusted the master volume on the subwoofer? Also, what’s the model of the Pioneer you’re using? I’d like to know the software the unit uses for calibration.

  158. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    GJT #74;

    Have you adjusted the master volume on the subwoofer? Also, what’s the model of the Pioneer you’re using? I’d like to know the software the unit uses for calibration.

  159. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    mharper #76;

    Our black lab apparently has a case of hematoma. The good news is that no matter what there’s no health risk but the bad news is that leaving it alone the blood will reintegrate with the body’s blood system but could notably wrinkle up her ear and she has such beautiful ears. We have no money for pet emergencies so we’re going to spend some Christmas money to take her in. It should be a simple procedure to aliviate the blood from her ear and then “quilt” the ear up to prevent blood from repocketing itself.

  160. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    mharper #76;

    Our black lab apparently has a case of hematoma. The good news is that no matter what there’s no health risk but the bad news is that leaving it alone the blood will reintegrate with the body’s blood system but could notably wrinkle up her ear and she has such beautiful ears. We have no money for pet emergencies so we’re going to spend some Christmas money to take her in. It should be a simple procedure to aliviate the blood from her ear and then “quilt” the ear up to prevent blood from repocketing itself.

  161. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    RE my #81;

    By “no health risk” I meant fatal or long-term.

  162. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    RE my #81;

    By “no health risk” I meant fatal or long-term.

  163. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    We forget they’re still kitties. This made me smile. And glad I’m not a cardboard box.

  164. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    We forget they’re still kitties. This made me smile. And glad I’m not a cardboard box.

  165. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    And then I come across this.

    LOL

  166. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    And then I come across this.

    LOL

  167. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #84 Tedtam

    As usual, I don’t get it! In the last panel, the human wears a SARS mask and the cat’s expression changes, but I don’t understand what that means.

  168. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #84 Tedtam

    As usual, I don’t get it! In the last panel, the human wears a SARS mask and the cat’s expression changes, but I don’t understand what that means.

  169. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    #85 mharper42

    I thought it was a mask at first glance, too, but it’s a big ol’ honkin’ smile of joy at seeing the kitty – the one who just predicted his impending doom. That’s why the cat’s expression at the idiot human.

  170. Tedtam Avatar
    Tedtam

    #85 mharper42

    I thought it was a mask at first glance, too, but it’s a big ol’ honkin’ smile of joy at seeing the kitty – the one who just predicted his impending doom. That’s why the cat’s expression at the idiot human.

  171. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    Darren, may the care you show for your floppy eared friend be returned to you threefold.

  172. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    Darren, may the care you show for your floppy eared friend be returned to you threefold.

  173. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    #80
    Darren

    The AVR is a Pioneer VSX-1015TX, the sub my son just gave me is a Pioneer SW-8.

    I don’t have many options as far as placement, gotta go back in and play with the settings. I turned down the master some but I want to see how it does with regular viewing.

  174. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    #80
    Darren

    The AVR is a Pioneer VSX-1015TX, the sub my son just gave me is a Pioneer SW-8.

    I don’t have many options as far as placement, gotta go back in and play with the settings. I turned down the master some but I want to see how it does with regular viewing.

  175. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #86 TT

    Ok, thanks for the explanation. My frontal lobes may not work as well as they once did.

    I’m smiling with joy myself because it looks like this little cat will pull through, when I thought this morning that we would probably not be coming back home with her. It was a shock to hear that her blood chemistry showed her to still be basically healthy in spite of not breathing well or eating well for a couple of weeks. Guess the bottom line is that a cat can look all raggedy-a$$ and hopeless, but still be OK.

  176. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    #86 TT

    Ok, thanks for the explanation. My frontal lobes may not work as well as they once did.

    I’m smiling with joy myself because it looks like this little cat will pull through, when I thought this morning that we would probably not be coming back home with her. It was a shock to hear that her blood chemistry showed her to still be basically healthy in spite of not breathing well or eating well for a couple of weeks. Guess the bottom line is that a cat can look all raggedy-a$$ and hopeless, but still be OK.

  177. Katfish Avatar
    Katfish

    Sarge –
    Just saw True Grit. Your review is pretty dead-on.

    In defense of the original, it was shot in the same style as all the other westerns of its time, just like those in the mid-70’s were all like the Clint Eastwood spaghetti westerns. The more recent westerns tend to be rougher in the sense of style of dress, etc. Compare 3:10 to Yuma now vs. the original.

  178. wagonburner Avatar
    wagonburner

    Sarge –
    Just saw True Grit. Your review is pretty dead-on.

    In defense of the original, it was shot in the same style as all the other westerns of its time, just like those in the mid-70’s were all like the Clint Eastwood spaghetti westerns. The more recent westerns tend to be rougher in the sense of style of dress, etc. Compare 3:10 to Yuma now vs. the original.

  179. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    Enough about sick cats! I want to say how much I enjoyed hearing about all the Hamsters’ Christmas meals and family events. It added a lot to my own enjoyment of the holiday, and reaffirms that the USA is the absolute best place to live on earth. I’d also say that Texas is the best state to reside in, but not sure everyone here would agree.

    Take care, as we all get back into our every-day work modes.

  180. mharper42 Avatar
    mharper42

    Enough about sick cats! I want to say how much I enjoyed hearing about all the Hamsters’ Christmas meals and family events. It added a lot to my own enjoyment of the holiday, and reaffirms that the USA is the absolute best place to live on earth. I’d also say that Texas is the best state to reside in, but not sure everyone here would agree.

    Take care, as we all get back into our every-day work modes.

  181. OletimerLin Avatar
    OletimerLin

    #91 Well, I can’t honestly say that last night’s was the best or most authentic gumbo I’ve ever had, but then I’m from Louisiana and have pretty high standards in that regard. Under whatever standards that might be applied, it was tasty and I enjoyed it.

    I was definitely hungry as a result of applying the scientific method to my brownie dilemma. I randomly selected and sliced one of the batches to sample, and the experiment was successful. I should add that the special “herbs and spices” were a gift from them that I’m hesitant to have in my house, hence the “re-gifting” of them in the form of a desert.

    It was fun to watch the slightly stressed young people doing one of their first holiday meals, and I’m grateful that they thought to include me. They tend to remind me of the ex and I when we were getting started on our journey of adult life, and that’s prolly why at times I’ve taken them under my wing.

    Every indication is that they’ll do fine. Yes, it was a good Christmas.

  182. bob42 Avatar
    bob42

    #91 Well, I can’t honestly say that last night’s was the best or most authentic gumbo I’ve ever had, but then I’m from Louisiana and have pretty high standards in that regard. Under whatever standards that might be applied, it was tasty and I enjoyed it.

    I was definitely hungry as a result of applying the scientific method to my brownie dilemma. I randomly selected and sliced one of the batches to sample, and the experiment was successful. I should add that the special “herbs and spices” were a gift from them that I’m hesitant to have in my house, hence the “re-gifting” of them in the form of a desert.

    It was fun to watch the slightly stressed young people doing one of their first holiday meals, and I’m grateful that they thought to include me. They tend to remind me of the ex and I when we were getting started on our journey of adult life, and that’s prolly why at times I’ve taken them under my wing.

    Every indication is that they’ll do fine. Yes, it was a good Christmas.

  183. El Gordo Avatar
    El Gordo

    Sarge,

    Enjoyed your review of True Grit. I look forward to seeing it with my family. My son really wanted to see it over the holidays but it didn’t work out. Will make it a point to catch it ASAP though.

  184. Dude42 Avatar
    Dude42

    Sarge,

    Enjoyed your review of True Grit. I look forward to seeing it with my family. My son really wanted to see it over the holidays but it didn’t work out. Will make it a point to catch it ASAP though.

  185. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    It will be a cold one tonight. Already 28 and dropping on the north bank of the Brazos at Richmond. Good thing we left the sheets on the patio plants from last night and the poinsettias from the covered patio in the garage. Outdoor water is still shut off. Around 7 this morning it was 27, but we expect tonight to be colder, with no wind At least we aren’t in the midst of a blizzard as our neighbors to the east were and the Northeast is now. Brrr.
    G’night all.

  186. Adee Avatar
    Adee

    It will be a cold one tonight. Already 28 and dropping on the north bank of the Brazos at Richmond. Good thing we left the sheets on the patio plants from last night and the poinsettias from the covered patio in the garage. Outdoor water is still shut off. Around 7 this morning it was 27, but we expect tonight to be colder, with no wind At least we aren’t in the midst of a blizzard as our neighbors to the east were and the Northeast is now. Brrr.
    G’night all.

  187. Super Dave Avatar
    Super Dave

    Neal Boortz has a story about a soldier’s reunion with his family that will make even the strongest man among us wilt a little.
    http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/2310463/posts

  188. El Gordo Avatar
    El Gordo

    Neal Boortz has a story about a soldier’s reunion with his family that will make even the strongest man among us wilt a little.
    http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/2310463/posts

  189. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    bob #87;

    Thanks but I’m not into dog food. 😉

  190. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    bob #87;

    Thanks but I’m not into dog food. 😉

  191. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    GJT #88;

    If you like the 1015TX but want to save some dough, check out Pioneer’s step-down model, the VSX-915. You’ll save $175 on the list price and still get the excellent MCACC autosetup, but the 915 lacks its big brother’s THX certification and component-video upconversion.

    LINK

    Apparently Pioneer’s autosetup software was highly rated but the only set up I know about that consistantly lacks negative reviews a well as flaws in the final setup is from Audyssey. Here’s three suggestions:

    1) If you used the MCACC software and still did not get optimal results, then try to set up speaker calibration via the THX software. (Ironically, Audyssey was founded by one of THX’s sound engineers who concluded that the inception of THX sound standards was a boost to the audio industry, overtime it became limited). Although I’ve never fiddled around with anything that has THX certification, I do understand that it exists in part to use as to set up optimal sound from your system.

    2) From my link above I noticed a “Bass Boost” option on your receiver. I’d suggest to make sure it is turned off. Pioneer makes great speakers but only in the top of the line/money-no-option market niche. Anything less than that category and Pioneer’s engineering in the speaker market is quit limited (and that’s being kind). I do not believe their top of the line speakers ever included subs.

    3) From the Pioneer receiver you should be able to access a volume boost of sorts within the speaker setup menu. Locate the subwoofer’s volume and try turning it down. Typically you should hear static sound when you access this feature and thus can use that sound to get an idea as to how loud it is.

    To avoid HAL’s annoying presence I’ll make a separate post.

  192. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    GJT #88;

    If you like the 1015TX but want to save some dough, check out Pioneer’s step-down model, the VSX-915. You’ll save $175 on the list price and still get the excellent MCACC autosetup, but the 915 lacks its big brother’s THX certification and component-video upconversion.

    LINK

    Apparently Pioneer’s autosetup software was highly rated but the only set up I know about that consistantly lacks negative reviews a well as flaws in the final setup is from Audyssey. Here’s three suggestions:

    1) If you used the MCACC software and still did not get optimal results, then try to set up speaker calibration via the THX software. (Ironically, Audyssey was founded by one of THX’s sound engineers who concluded that the inception of THX sound standards was a boost to the audio industry, overtime it became limited). Although I’ve never fiddled around with anything that has THX certification, I do understand that it exists in part to use as to set up optimal sound from your system.

    2) From my link above I noticed a “Bass Boost” option on your receiver. I’d suggest to make sure it is turned off. Pioneer makes great speakers but only in the top of the line/money-no-option market niche. Anything less than that category and Pioneer’s engineering in the speaker market is quit limited (and that’s being kind). I do not believe their top of the line speakers ever included subs.

    3) From the Pioneer receiver you should be able to access a volume boost of sorts within the speaker setup menu. Locate the subwoofer’s volume and try turning it down. Typically you should hear static sound when you access this feature and thus can use that sound to get an idea as to how loud it is.

    To avoid HAL’s annoying presence I’ll make a separate post.

  193. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    GJT #88 (con’t);

    If you’re willing to plop down about a few hundred dólares americanos I’d go ahead an get a new sub.

    ONLINE ONLY DEALERS:
    LFM-1 – Highly rated and a highly reputable online-only dealer. If you’re patient you’d probably run across a sale reducing the price by half.

    PB10-NSD – Pricier but you can’t go wrong with SVS subs. Their cylinder subs are pricier but take up a smaller footprint which sounds like you can use as well as make your wife happier (if she doesn’t see the bill).

    STF-1 – Probably more within the average consumer’s price range. HSU is a renouned sub manufacturer and vendor. This sub’s their smallest as well but it puts out.

    Feel free to visit any brick and mortor store but in terms a getting a great compact sub I’d highly recommend something from Velodyne though you’ll typically get a higher value product sticking to online-only manufacturers/vendors.

  194. Darren Avatar
    Darren

    GJT #88 (con’t);

    If you’re willing to plop down about a few hundred dólares americanos I’d go ahead an get a new sub.

    ONLINE ONLY DEALERS:
    LFM-1 – Highly rated and a highly reputable online-only dealer. If you’re patient you’d probably run across a sale reducing the price by half.

    PB10-NSD – Pricier but you can’t go wrong with SVS subs. Their cylinder subs are pricier but take up a smaller footprint which sounds like you can use as well as make your wife happier (if she doesn’t see the bill).

    STF-1 – Probably more within the average consumer’s price range. HSU is a renouned sub manufacturer and vendor. This sub’s their smallest as well but it puts out.

    Feel free to visit any brick and mortor store but in terms a getting a great compact sub I’d highly recommend something from Velodyne though you’ll typically get a higher value product sticking to online-only manufacturers/vendors.

  195. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    Darren, see next post.

  196. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    Darren, see next post.

  197. Southern Tragedy Avatar
    Southern Tragedy

    hunnerd!

    Darren, the sub was a Christmas present from my boy, I gotta make it work! Besides, any future expenditures in the HT will be upgrading center and fronts. My system is a patch together with each part being the best I can afford at the time which in the past 3 yrs has been zero. 😀

    Yes I love the auto set-up, when it’s done the speaker distances are right on, it is pretty smart. I don’t have the ear for manual set-up but most audiophiles I read say it gets it damned close.

    I am able to manually change volume, distance and cross-over in the auto set-up. I should be able to get the boom out.

  198. GJT Avatar
    GJT

    hunnerd!

    Darren, the sub was a Christmas present from my boy, I gotta make it work! Besides, any future expenditures in the HT will be upgrading center and fronts. My system is a patch together with each part being the best I can afford at the time which in the past 3 yrs has been zero. 😀

    Yes I love the auto set-up, when it’s done the speaker distances are right on, it is pretty smart. I don’t have the ear for manual set-up but most audiophiles I read say it gets it damned close.

    I am able to manually change volume, distance and cross-over in the auto set-up. I should be able to get the boom out.

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