Stephen Lawrence Brayton's Posts - Authors.com2024-03-19T11:57:09ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBraytonhttp://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1547968322?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1http://www.authors.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=3jdjoq5rwbh2b&xn_auth=noChapters - XIIItag:www.authors.com,2017-09-15:3798404:BlogPost:2102642017-09-15T03:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="sleeping dog" class="wp-image-3105 alignright" height="212" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/09/sleeping-dog.jpg" width="315"></img> “<i>It’s lazy of the local shopkeepers in Puerto Vallarta to close in the afternoons. I often needed to buy things during ‘siesta’ time-this should be banned.”</i></p>
<p>This brings up a topic of discussion I have with many people: when do you find time to write?</p>
<p>Well, for 16 years, I worked the night shift at various motels. 11p-7a. My weekends were whatever two days the supervisor scheduled. Usually, I would go home and if I needed to be up for class later that evening, I…</p>
<p><img class="wp-image-3105 alignright" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/09/sleeping-dog.jpg" alt="sleeping dog" width="315" height="212"/>“<i>It’s lazy of the local shopkeepers in Puerto Vallarta to close in the afternoons. I often needed to buy things during ‘siesta’ time-this should be banned.”</i></p>
<p>This brings up a topic of discussion I have with many people: when do you find time to write?</p>
<p>Well, for 16 years, I worked the night shift at various motels. 11p-7a. My weekends were whatever two days the supervisor scheduled. Usually, I would go home and if I needed to be up for class later that evening, I would go to sleep right away. If I had a free evening I would consider going outside to workout. Run, bike. When I lived at the campground for several months, my workout schedule was very erratic. When I moved to Carlisle, I discovered the high school was across the street so that meant the football field surrounded by the track. This made it easier to run in the mornings. There were times, on my days off when I would run late at night or in the wee hours. It was quiet and cool and nobody to bother me.</p>
<p>Now that I work for Gannett, I’ve had a lot of overtime. Sleep is precious. I’m often tired in the evenings even if I don’t work OT. Sleep has been an issue because many nights I can’t fall asleep when I want. I toss and turn, go out to the too short couch and doze, back to the bed, etc. I may not fall asleep for a couple hours. This makes me tired at work.</p>
<p>On weekends, I catch up on a bit of sleep. And on weekends, is when I usually write. Maybe I’ll do some in the evenings I’m free (I think Tuesday, for the most part is free a lot, unless I go to a writers’ critique group). Saturdays or Sundays are my writing days. I go out to a local park and sit in the shade at a picnic table and write.</p>
<p>I’m working on a collaborative story. I have been waking up and going into work early and spending a few minutes on Google Drive editing this story. Sometimes it works, but with that OT, not often.</p>
<p>Sleep. Sometimes I want to write, but I know sleep demands attention. A nap is in order. Otherwise, I’d feel like I was trying to force the words and I wouldn’t be able to concentrate.</p>
<p>How about you? How does your sleep schedule affect your writing?</p>Following Directionstag:www.authors.com,2017-05-12:3798404:BlogPost:2073682017-05-12T21:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><span><img alt="When-all-else-fails-follow-directions" class="size-full wp-image-2685 alignright" height="156" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/05/when-all-else-fails-follow-directions.jpeg?w=480" width="240"></img> May I have a few paragraphs to discuss a minor issue? This is about following directions.</span></p>
<p><span>Before I joined Gannett, I spent years filling out online applications (paper applications having almost gone by the wayside) and have spent years querying agents and publishers regarding my books.</span></p>
<p><span>Each site and organization has directions to follow to fill out their applications or to submit material.</span></p>
<p><span>Online applications are…</span></p>
<p><span><img class="size-full wp-image-2685 alignright" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/05/when-all-else-fails-follow-directions.jpeg?w=480" alt="When-all-else-fails-follow-directions" width="240" height="156"/>May I have a few paragraphs to discuss a minor issue? This is about following directions.</span></p>
<p><span>Before I joined Gannett, I spent years filling out online applications (paper applications having almost gone by the wayside) and have spent years querying agents and publishers regarding my books.</span></p>
<p><span>Each site and organization has directions to follow to fill out their applications or to submit material.</span></p>
<p><span>Online applications are relatively easy to follow, although a complaint I would make is that the forms are long and heaven help you if you mess up or your computer balks in the middle or when you hit SUBMIT to forward your application to the HR department. I don’t know how many times some glitch occurred and I had to start from the beginning. Ten, fifteen, or more minutes gone because of a glitch and I had to re-type all of the information.</span></p>
<p><span>Many times, there are directions on what material to upload to attach to the application. Resume, references, salary requirements, blood type, birth certificate, driver’s license, school transcripts, grocery receipts, etc. (Okay, some of these might not be needed.) This was a slow process, too, because I remember at one company-which shall remain nameless-I wasn’t sure whether the information had actually uploaded because the system wasn’t designed to be user friendly.</span></p>
<p><span>Applying to a college which shall also remain nameless (but I’m very tempted), I couldn’t work their online system. So, I spent an hour trying to find the campus HR office (which was off campus), and walked in to find half the lights out, and one woman manning the desk. I explained my situation but she said I had to apply online. “But I’m right here. I have my resume. Could I fill out an application.” No, it had to be done online. “But I’m right here.”</span></p>
<p><span>I walked out thinking she needed to find another job because her position was obsolete.</span></p>
<p><span>But, it comes back to following directions (which I balked at because I couldn’t navigate the system.)</span></p>
<p><span>With regards to submitting to an agent or publisher, I don’t know how many times I’ve heard to follow their submission requirements explicitly. If they want three chapters, send three chapters. If they want 50 pages, don’t decrease the font size to have the entire book on fifty pages. Most don’t want a manuscript until about the third round.</span></p>
<p><span>I have no problem with these directions. I may have a problem with them not replying, even to say no. I realize they’re inundated with hundreds and hundreds of queries, but I think it comes down to basic business courtesy. “Thank you but this is not for us.” That’s all it takes and that’s what I’ve received numerous times.</span></p>
<p><span>Anyway, I bring up this topic because I’ve signed up on a couple review sites. Authors look on the site, find a reviewer, contact him/her to request a review. Now, in my section on both sites where authors are able to see what books I’m interested in reading, I suggest that authors please look at my review blog (braytonsbookbuzz.wordpress.com) to see how I review and to read past reviews. This is so they understand the difference between my review blog and others. There is also a sidebar where I list the genres I’m interested in and how to make a request.</span></p>
<p><span>It lists my email and states the following: “</span><span><span>In your email, please submit name (duh!), website (must have), and any relevant information about your book (including publisher and purchase sites). Please do not send attachments with queries.”</span></span></p>
<p><span>I want something more than, “Hey dude, here’s my book. You want to review it?” Most of the time, however, I receive an email with not much more than this. Also, I don’t know how many times people have attached the book in anticipation of my acceptance or else to save time.</span></p>
<p><span>One of the best requests I received started with a deference to my busy schedule. She introduced herself, gave a website, gave me the elevator pitch on her book and formally requested a review. Normally, I wouldn’t have read her book because it was a foreign mystery and I think twice about those. However, because of the way she wrote her request, I accepted it, and mentioned that in the review. The book didn’t rate a black belt, but was still enjoyable.</span></p>
<p><span>I don’t like attachments, partially because of the reason other businesses don’t like them: the possibility of the attachment being corrupted. Another reason is I think it shows a bit of courtesy toward the person (as it would the agent/publisher) not to assume. I certainly wouldn’t attach a manuscript to an agent/publisher and basically say, “Here it is!” They’re going to be suspicious and reject it automatically…unless their instructions ask for the manuscript.</span></p>
<p><span>I’m not saying I’m as important as those agents and publishers, but if I speak to another blogger, in regard to either review of my book or getting space with a guest blog/interview, I’m always formal and courteous.</span></p>
<p><span>I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that.</span></p>
<p><span>Do you?</span></p>Integritytag:www.authors.com,2017-04-20:3798404:BlogPost:2072532017-04-20T22:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Richard-Norton-with-quote-296x300" class="size-full wp-image-2672 alignright" height="300" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/richard-norton-with-quote-296x300.jpg?w=592" width="296"></img> Another set of student essays. This time, on Integrity: </p>
<p>Stella –</p>
<p>I think integrity is practicing you hardest and doing the moves the correct way. It is about not fighting with or being mean to my brother even if mommy and daddy are not watching.</p>
<p>It is also about doing what the teacher says, like standing quietly in line when the teacher is helping someone else.</p>
<p>Helping others when you say you are going to help is also a way to show integrity.</p>
<p>I…</p>
<p><img class="size-full wp-image-2672 alignright" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/richard-norton-with-quote-296x300.jpg?w=592" alt="Richard-Norton-with-quote-296x300" width="296" height="300"/>Another set of student essays. This time, on Integrity: </p>
<p>Stella –</p>
<p>I think integrity is practicing you hardest and doing the moves the correct way. It is about not fighting with or being mean to my brother even if mommy and daddy are not watching.</p>
<p>It is also about doing what the teacher says, like standing quietly in line when the teacher is helping someone else.</p>
<p>Helping others when you say you are going to help is also a way to show integrity.</p>
<p>I think mostly, it is trying your best, working hard, having fun to get better and learn more about karate.</p>
<p>Noelle -</p>
<p>What is integrity? Well, the definition of integrity is basically honesty and knowing what’s the right thing to do. Integrity is when you are honest to someone. Integrity is a good attribute to look for in a friend.</p>
<p>You can use integrity wherever you go – school, outside, at home, or even in the small, unimportant place. Integrity is a key characteristic that you should look for in people. If you see honesty shining out of someone’s personality, you know that they have great integrity quality.</p>
<p>At school, integrity is seen all over. If someone forgot to do their assignment and is afraid to tell the teacher when she asks if the assignment was completed by everyone, integrity is being honest and admitting to it.</p>
<p>If, at a friend’s house, I am called to come home because I didn’t clean my room like I was supposed to, integrity is doing the right thing honestly by telling your friend that you need to leave and why and not making an excuse.</p>
<p>Integrity is being honest and always doing what your heart tells you to do. It’s telling the truth even if you don’t feel like it instead of lying. Integrity is showing people that you are trustworthy. There are many examples of integrity all around in your life. You just need to look for them.</p>
<p>Elijah -</p>
<p>The definition of integrity is: being honest or having strong moral principles. Integrity is a good thing to look for in a friend.</p>
<p>If I want to go to a friend’s house, but I have to clean my room, I don’t lie, I clean my room. In the same way, if you ant good grades, you do your homework. You don’t just lie and say, “No, I don’t have any homework.” You do you homework.</p>
<p>If my instructors ask me if we practiced our form, but we didn’t we don’t say we did, we tell the truth and say we didn’t.</p>
<p>Integrity is shown all around you. If you don’t tell the truth, the consequences are greater than they would have been if you would have told the truth.</p>
<p>Madison -</p>
<p>I love doing the right thing. At school, I pick up paper towels off the ground. AT home, I play with my sister and use kind words. At swim practice I share the lane and let others in front of me unless they’re scared.</p>
<p>Amber -</p>
<p>The meaning of integrity is being honest and having fairness to others and share with your friends and also show people your courage and strength no matter what you’re going through. Be honest if someone asks you something, do tell the truth. Always return things if you find them. Don’t keep it. Show strength and courage no matter what situation you’re going through.</p>
<p>Saleena -</p>
<p>Integrity is about sharing with others and being fair to your friends and taking turns and honor the things you do at home or with your family and teachers. Integrity is about being honest about things, being trustworthy to other people.</p>Chapters - XItag:www.authors.com,2017-04-13:3798404:BlogPost:2072492017-04-13T23:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="The Latin Quarter, Paris, France" class="wp-image-2666 alignright" height="240" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/c11.jpg?w=1200" width="360"></img> “<i>The roads were uneven and bumpy, so we could not read the local guide book during the bus ride to the resort. Because of this, we were unaware of many things that would have made our holiday more fun.”</i></p>
<p>Okay, I just don't know what to say about this.</p>
<p>Anyway, I wanted to relate this to how reading has always been one of my enjoyments. I think one of the best jobs I could have would be one where I did nothing but read books. Maybe for review (which I do for free…</p>
<p><img class="wp-image-2666 alignright" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/c11.jpg?w=1200" alt="The Latin Quarter, Paris, France" width="360" height="240"/>“<i>The roads were uneven and bumpy, so we could not read the local guide book during the bus ride to the resort. Because of this, we were unaware of many things that would have made our holiday more fun.”</i></p>
<p>Okay, I just don't know what to say about this.</p>
<p>Anyway, I wanted to relate this to how reading has always been one of my enjoyments. I think one of the best jobs I could have would be one where I did nothing but read books. Maybe for review (which I do for free nowadays) or just get paid to enjoy a book.</p>
<p>This brings me to my book collection. I don't know how many books I own both in print and various computer files. However, I thought I might share some of them with you. First off, you get an insight into what enjoy and second, it makes for an easy blog when the majority of the blog is copy and paste or listing authors. Lol.</p>
<p>All of the Alfred Hitchcock and the Three Investigators books in the series.</p>
<p>Most of the Doctor Who novels.</p>
<p><span>Many Bill Bryson books</span></p>
<p><span>Many of the Dave Barry books</span></p>
<p><span>The James Herriot books</span></p>
<p><span>Several of the Uncle John's Bathroom Readers books</span></p>
<p><span>Most of the Hardy Boys books</span></p>
<p><span>Some of the examples in the horror and sci-fi genres include:</span></p>
<p><span>L.A. Banks</span></p>
<p><span>Tom Allen</span></p>
<p><span>Clive Barker</span></p>
<p><span>Algernon Blackwood</span></p>
<p><span>Most of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer series</span></p>
<p><span>Edgar Rice Burroughs</span></p>
<p><span>Karen Chance</span></p>
<p><span>Brendan Hay</span></p>
<p><span>Dean Ing</span></p>
<p><span>Stephen King (of course)</span></p>
<p><span>David Morrell</span></p>
<p><span>Bill Pronzini (include him in the mystery genre)</span></p>
<p><span>Dave Watson</span></p>
<p><span>F. Paul Wilson</span></p>
<p><span>H.P. Lovecraft</span></p>
<p><span>Mystery authors include:</span></p>
<p><span>Nevada Barr</span></p>
<p><span>Lawrence Block</span></p>
<p><span>C.J. Box (saw him at Killer Nashville one year)</span></p>
<p><span>Donald Bain (ditto)</span></p>
<p><span>Jeffrey Deaver (ditto)</span></p>
<p><span>Lee Child</span></p>
<p><span>Clive Cussler</span></p>
<p><span>Every Dick Francis book</span></p>
<p><span>Erle Stanley Gardner</span></p>
<p><span>Rex Stout</span></p>
<p><span>Jack Higgins</span></p>
<p><span>Reginald Hill</span></p>
<p><span>John Lutz</span></p>
<p><span>Lisa Lutz</span></p>
<p><span>Steve Martini</span></p>
<p><span>Ellery Queen</span></p>
<p><span>John Sandford</span></p>
<p><span>Dorothy Sayers</span></p>
<p><span>Jon Trace</span></p>
<p><span>Stuart Woods</span></p>
<p><span>I also have many Star Trek and Star Wars stories.</span></p>
<p><span>Wow, I just realized that I could go on for several weeks like this, just listing books and authors. Again, I could go through my inventory and count but that would take way too long.</span></p>
<p><span>I can do this for you. When I started collecting books, I made the decision to put the horror novels separate from every other genre and start numbering them. I don't know why I decided to do that. Some OCD thing early on. Anyway, every book I deem a horror or something very similar gets a number. As the years have passed I have realized that some of those early choices probably should have been placed in the mystery or sci-fi section, but I'm not going to go back and change the list.</span></p>
<p><span>What I've done with every print book I've bought is place ½ of an index card with the number I've designated for it just inside the cover and the other half with the same number showing on the back of the book when I wrap it in plastic for storage. When the eBook files started rolling in, I just included them. Now, I will admit that some of the stories listed in the horror section are not full length books. Some are short stories that have been published on their own and some have been included in anthologies. Again, I wasn't going to take the time to research. However, the vast majority of the numbered horror stories are full length books. At the time of this writing, I am up to number 1585. That's just in the horror genre.</span></p>
<p><span>Currently, in my 'to read' collection I have a bookcase that is approximately three feet wide with six shelves, double-stacked with paperbacks. I also have a metal bookcase approximately four feet wide or so, three shelves full of hardback with a three foot stack of hardbacks on top. Then I have a video case about a foot wide with, I think, six or seven shelves for the rest of the hardbacks. Then I couldn't even begin to guess how many of the eBooks are on the 'to read' list.</span></p>
<p><span>In storage, waiting for my dream library, are at least twenty boxes of various sizes of wrapped already read books.</span></p>
<p><span>So, if you don't mind, I think I'll get back to reading.</span></p>
<p><span>What are some of the books in your inventory?</span></p>Friendshiptag:www.authors.com,2017-03-24:3798404:BlogPost:2067682017-03-24T03:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><span><span><span><img alt="Friendship" class="size-full wp-image-2570 alignleft" height="399" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/friendship.jpg" width="498"></img> "True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it be lost."<br></br><i>- Charles Caleb Colton</i></span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>I often think of the friends I've made throughout the years. Those in high school, some of whom I see either annually or every five years. Those in college, most of those I've never seen since graduation. Those in the workplace, through my association in the American Taekwondo Association, through…</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span><img class="size-full wp-image-2570 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/friendship.jpg" alt="Friendship" width="498" height="399"/>"True friendship is like sound health; the value of it is seldom known until it be lost."<br/><i>- Charles Caleb Colton</i></span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>I often think of the friends I've made throughout the years. Those in high school, some of whom I see either annually or every five years. Those in college, most of those I've never seen since graduation. Those in the workplace, through my association in the American Taekwondo Association, through my writers' group meetings. I could never name all of them but I'd like to highlight a few:</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Clark, Jennifer, Paul, Marvin, and the girl who lived next door: 1987. Keystone, SD. I spent a summer working at a burger/chicken place attached to the Ruby House Cafe. Clark was my cook mate. Jenny was his girlfriend. Paul worked inside the restaurant. Marvin was my supervisor. Somewhere, I still have a placard the girl who lived next door to my bunkhouse placed on my car the day I left to go home. We all had some good times and I wish I still was in contact with them.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Allan Allsup: A guy who had the first room on the left when you stepped into the 3<sup>rd</sup> floor west hall of the Iowa Wesleyan men's dorm. He re-introduced me to backgammon. We talked music and philosophy and I'm 0-21 against him in ping-pong. Some of his life was troubled and I've kept my eye out for his name ever since he left to go experience what the world brought to him. Allan, I'd love to sit and talk with you some more if you're ever in the area.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Gary Petersen, Dave Stone, Roy, and that girl who wore the miniskirts: First real job out of college (not including the month I worked at the Amoco shop.) WKEI/WJRE in Kewanee, Illinois. I was there less than two years, and when I worked the morning shift on the FM side, oh, the fun we had. Gary was the AM board operator. Dave was the newsman. The receptionist/office worker who wore the tantalizing clothing didn't stay around long enough. The fun Dave, Gary, and I trying to make each other laugh on the air. Sportscasts, splitting up the holiday schedule. Roy and I tormenting that one guy (all in good fun, but no, we probably should not have done that. I don't think it had any lasting effects) on the late shifts. I honored Gary a bit by giving my heroine his surname.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Becky and Jim (don't call me James) Gaskill: She was a coworker for a time at the Oskaloosa Herald. He worked in CAD. The dart games. The card games. The dinners. The one time we all went to dinner with some of his coworkers and I got as drunk as I've ever been and will never be again. (Sorry about the waste basket and the knit pillow.) I saw them when they came through on a family vacation. Everybody's a little older, but nothing's changed, and that's just great.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Yvette: No, that's not her real name, although for a time I thought it was. She was an assistant when I attended a photography course in Iowa City one week before my senior year in high school. I met her four years later when I was doing my internship at a Quad Cities radio station. She lived in the metro area and the one day I stopped by I was 'conned' into helping her move.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Of course I would be remiss if I didn't at least mention a bunch of other people (sorry if I omitted your name but not by choice. I'm just brainstorming here and am bound to leave out a few): the entire class of '84 Danville High (that's Danville, Iowa, folks); Kim, Roger, all family (yeah, the pesky in-laws, too), Angi, Mike, Karen, everybody in any writers' group of which I've been a member, Peter (Chicago!), all the ATA instructors/students at all of the camps/business meetings/tournaments; Robert (you hug-able friend), Mary, Rod, Kim (with a different last name), Mrs. Rieke (sorry, can't get used to calling you Mary, even after all these years), Matt, Nik, Crystal, Kurt (You think I wouldn't mention you four? Think again!), Dan, that guy I played tennis with at 1 a.m. in Keystone, those wonderful people at the AME church in Kewanee, the pre-press folks at Sutherland Printing, the other Boatheads on third floor west at Wesleyan...</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>...and all the rest.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Cultivate your friendships because they will make memories to last a lifetime.</span></span></span></p>Chapter - Xtag:www.authors.com,2017-03-17:3798404:BlogPost:2069782017-03-17T02:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="C10" class="size-full wp-image-2566 alignleft" height="224" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/c10.jpg" width="300"></img> “<i>We went on holiday to Spain and had a problem with the taxi drivers as they were all Spanish.”</i></p>
<p>Uh-huh. Really? Well, before I get into my main topic, may I dip a toe into the social/political arena? Some people wonder why Americans won't easily accommodate Spanish speaking people when the majority of Americans speak English. The above quote shows the absurdity of some people but makes a point – if we're to speak Spanish to accommodate Spanish speaking people, then…</p>
<p><img class="size-full wp-image-2566 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/03/c10.jpg" alt="C10" width="300" height="224"/>“<i>We went on holiday to Spain and had a problem with the taxi drivers as they were all Spanish.”</i></p>
<p>Uh-huh. Really? Well, before I get into my main topic, may I dip a toe into the social/political arena? Some people wonder why Americans won't easily accommodate Spanish speaking people when the majority of Americans speak English. The above quote shows the absurdity of some people but makes a point – if we're to speak Spanish to accommodate Spanish speaking people, then should we expect the majority of foreigners to speak English when we're in their country? If I was going to take a job in Germany, I darn sure would take a bunch of German classes to be able to communicate.</p>
<p>Anyway, please, please do not think that I am putting down Spanish speaking people and I want to move away from the political/social/immigration issue. When I saw the 'complaint' quoted above, I immediately thought of some of my former coworkers who were Mexican. I found it difficult to converse with them because they knew minimal English, but that didn't mean I didn't like them or that they were not excellent workers. They were constantly getting Employee of the Quarter awards and for 2013 the main laundry guy received Employee of the Year.</p>
<p>I took my required Spanish classes in high school and didn't go any further. I know some Spanish words but not enough to have a coherent conversation. I took a semester of German and sort of wished I could have delved deeper because I did enjoy it.</p>
<p>A friend took his Spanish classes in high school, then went on to take more in college, and subsequently became a Spanish teacher...in Juneau. Why he wanted to teach Spanish to Eskimos is beyond me. (Kidding! I'm kidding. Don't write nasty replies and emails. I love the guy and he's doing what he wants and is darn good at what he does. If he wants to live in the frigid north, that's his business. And don't be telling me lies about how mild Juneau winters are. I've seen the pictures.)</p>
<p>The reason I bring up this topic is to say that because I live in America and have had the opportunity for foreign travel come up once. I'm interested in foreigners. If you were born and spent a fair amount of your life in another country, I want to get to know you. I had the pleasure of meeting a Brit in college (very cool guy, by the way), an Indonesian (his plans were to graduate Wesleyan, then go onto Iowa University, then go home to Jakarta. I hope you made it, dude.), a Swede (a foreign exchange students), a student from China (ditto), a woman from Taiwan (who, at one time, completely misunderstood what I was trying to ask her. Whew, talk about embarrassing.), a German, and throughout my years as a desk clerk, I've met Hollanders (is that the correct terminology?), Australians (love that accent), Canadians (no accent, they were not from French Canada.), Indians (Asian), Egyptian (excellent computer guy), Africans (not sure from which African country, and yes, I know Egypt is part of Africa.), and many more.</p>
<p>I have enjoyed hours and hours speaking with them about their life and their country. I may never be able to visit, so to talk to someone willing to share information is so wonderful. I ask everything from weather to employment to cultural interests. When Yahoo still had their games with the chatting capability, I discovered people from all over the world. I conversed with a guy from Scotland. I mentioned to him that of all the accents in the world, I thought that when women spoke in a British or Irish or Scottish accent, that was the sexiest thing. I could listen to that for hours. Following a close second is a Southern accent. Georgia/Mississippi, etc.</p>
<p>Exchanging words with someone over a computer chat box is okay but it's the face to face time I enjoy. Shouldn't that be part of life, meeting new people, sharing thoughts, ideas, information. Not just in a business setting, but over coffee or a couple beers (okay, give me a Dr Pepper and YOU drink the mocha espresso latte frappi-machiato with skim milk and extra whipped cream concoction).</p>
<p>Just talk to me about your country because I want to know.</p>Adult Truth #24 or ???? Part 2tag:www.authors.com,2017-01-20:3798404:BlogPost:2062482017-01-20T18:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p>“The first testicular guard, the "Cup," was used in Hockey in 1874 ; the first helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is also important.”<br></br> Several years ago I wrote a blog concerning certain imponderable questions. I listened to a couple audio books which asked and tried to answer some of these questions. For instance, why doesn't the water in water towers freeze into one big iceberg in the winter? Answer – a combination of three…</p>
<p>“The first testicular guard, the "Cup," was used in Hockey in 1874 ; the first helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is also important.”<br/> Several years ago I wrote a blog concerning certain imponderable questions. I listened to a couple audio books which asked and tried to answer some of these questions. For instance, why doesn't the water in water towers freeze into one big iceberg in the winter? Answer – a combination of three things of which I've forgotten.<br/>
Anyway, this humorous truth about the state of men's minds set me to thinking about other questions nobody has been able to answer or if there is an answer, it would be an interesting anecdote to put into a story. <br/>
1. How do they know snowflakes are all different?<br/>
2. Who decided that even numbered major highways run east/west and the odd numbered run north/south?<br/>
3. Who designed the zip codes and how did the assignations to each city come about?<br/>
4. Why is the standard paper size 8.5x11and not 8x10?<br/>
5. Who decided the width of the railways? (Actually, there is an interesting piece I've seen floating around the emails that does sort of answer this question and I would like to know if it has any veracity.)<br/>
6. Why do clocks run clockwise, but race cars race counterclockwise?<br/>
7. Why are there 18 holes in a golf game and not 20?<br/>
8. Who came up with the unoriginal name for the fly? So many other things fly, why name that particular pest the fly?<br/>
9. What is the point of Daylight Savings Time in today's world?<br/>
10. Why is it pronounced Celtics with a hard C but the team is called the Boston Celtics?<br/>
Okay, I'm not going to think too much harder about this, but these questions are interesting. Do any of my readers have questions that bother and niggle?</p>Adult Truth #23tag:www.authors.com,2017-01-13:3798404:BlogPost:2064452017-01-13T17:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><span><img alt="00piece_of_time_by_irondoomdesign" class="wp-image-2406 alignleft" height="286" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/01/00piece_of_time_by_irondoomdesign.jpg" width="286"></img> “<span><i>Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I'd bet everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time.”</i></span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Coming down to near the end of these truths, I find myself hard-pressed to link them to aspects of writing. For this one, I settled on…</span></span></p>
<p><span><img class="wp-image-2406 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2017/01/00piece_of_time_by_irondoomdesign.jpg" alt="00piece_of_time_by_irondoomdesign" width="286" height="286"/>“<span><i>Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I'd bet everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time.”</i></span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Coming down to near the end of these truths, I find myself hard-pressed to link them to aspects of writing. For this one, I settled on time.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Time: I've mentioned time problems in stories in other posts but I wanted to discuss my three Mallory Petersen action mysteries. Now, you're saying, “But Steve, you only have two Petersen mysteries published.” True, but at the time of this writing, I've completed the first draft of the third.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>In Beta, I had a time problem with putting in enough action to fill each day. The story starts on Sunday night and lasts just over a week. Each day I had to make sure something relevant occurred. I didn't want wasted time. Also, I had to make sure that what all did occur lasted for the entire day. For instance, the story has Mallory traveling to the Quad Cities to search for a missing girl. On her first full day she visits several businesses. For research, I drove the route she took and stopped at the places along the way to talk to people at the businesses I wanted to use. At the first I met an uncaring receptionist who probably threw my card away when I left. At another I met a flighty secretary who didn't understand the purpose of my visit. (Both ended up in the story.) However, after all my driving, and even allowing time for the visits, Mallory's quest ended around noon. I needed it to last most of the day. To solve the problem, I added scenes where she could use her taekwondo skills, meet some oddballs, and her actions resulted in long conversations with the police. Put in slow traffic and I ate up time.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>In Alpha, the time problem presented itself in the days before the climactic scene. Again, the main thrust of the story lasts about a week but there was a period of two days where Mallory was stuck in a homicide investigator's house trying to avoid the bad guys. Not much action there and I rushed through the hours. This happened over a weekend. I knew, though, I had to get her out of the house come Monday morning. She had responsibilities other than the police operation to attend to. Actually, this story, because I had an outline when I started the rewrite, didn't have too many time problems, but I still paid attention to the down times.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>In the third book, Delta, I had a huge time problem. Without giving away too much of the plot, Mallory is kidnapped and held for a week. When she is rescued, she spends another ten days in isolation. As I mentioned, the first draft is completed but when I start the rewrites I will devote concentrated attention on these two weeks. I want to make sure there is activity, without letting repetition sink the book into doldrums. I have a couple options and more research into the situation through which Mallory suffers may solve the problem and, I'm hoping, give me a spark of creativity to strengthen the scenes.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>For the fourth book, Gamma, I want to have the story occur within one day. So I will have to focus even more minutely at time. Matthew Reilly writes books that cover one day, three days at most but he puts so much nail biting action you think you've spent a month with the main character. I love his books.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Time is tricky and writers must be aware of the pitfalls. I mentioned in another post about a book featuring a serial killer. The author didn't keep track of time and this was one of the major problems in the book. In one scene, he left a character staring out a window. The scene changed and when it returned to the previous character, she was still at the window. There wasn't a sense that the intervening scene was happening at the same time as the previous. In other places, a day would last a long time. Yet, farther on, days would pass with nothing happening when, logically, there should be. This, along with other problems made for a mess of a story.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Writers can slow down time or lengthen it. This is especially true in action scenes. Falling off a cliff can seemingly last a long time, but gunshots and bullets flying may be quick. Don't forget dialogue can also be used to slow or speed up time.</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Writers also have to let the readers know when time has passed. I've read several murder mysteries where weeks and months go by until the next crime. This is okay, as long as the writers shows and explains it. In the above poorly written book, I never comprehended the passage of time. I became lost. (Actually, I was lost way before time became an issue. I wish I could detail the myriad, tragic, and humorous other problems this book had because it would make for a multiple part blog on how NOT to write a book. However, because this book may someday get rewritten and published one, I won't damage the author's perseverance by delving too deep.)</span></span></p>
<p><span><span>Be aware of time, not only the time of day or night, but the passing seconds, minutes, and hours. I certainly did, especially on the long graveyard shifts I used to work.</span></span></p>Loyaltytag:www.authors.com,2016-12-23:3798404:BlogPost:2045332016-12-23T00:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="loyalty-quote" class="wp-image-2356 aligncenter" height="320" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/12/loyalty-quote.jpg" width="399"></img> Some of my students' thoughts on Loyalty:</p>
<p>Ethan -</p>
<p>Loyalty is standing up for your friends. For example, let’s say a friend told you a secret. Being loyal means you keep that secret. Another example is watching and making sure they’re safe. I am loyal to my family because I watch my sister when I promise to.</p>
<p>Stella -</p>
<p>I think loyalty means learning from and listening to my Mom and Dad. It is speaking up and saying “Yes, Sir!” at karate when we are being…</p>
<p><img class="wp-image-2356 aligncenter" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/12/loyalty-quote.jpg" alt="loyalty-quote" width="399" height="320"/>Some of my students' thoughts on Loyalty:</p>
<p>Ethan -</p>
<p>Loyalty is standing up for your friends. For example, let’s say a friend told you a secret. Being loyal means you keep that secret. Another example is watching and making sure they’re safe. I am loyal to my family because I watch my sister when I promise to.</p>
<p>Stella -</p>
<p>I think loyalty means learning from and listening to my Mom and Dad. It is speaking up and saying “Yes, Sir!” at karate when we are being asked to do something. It is trying my hardest to do things the right way. It is also helping my brother and my family and my friends when they need it. At school, I am loyal to my teacher by showing up on time, doing my homework, listening, taking turns and trying my best.</p>
<p>People Loyal to me: Mom & Dad, Grandma & Grandpa, Grayson</p>
<p>People I am Loyal to: Mom & Dad, Mrs. Westhoff, Grandpa & Grandma, Mr. Brayton, my friends</p>
<p>Madison -</p>
<p>Loyalty is paying attention to others. I am loyal to my teacher, mom, dad, dogs. My teacher, mom, dad, and dogs are loyal to me.</p>
<p>Noelle -</p>
<p>What is loyalty. Well, the definition of loyalty is “faithfulness to a commitment”, but loyalty’s definition in my eyes is “staying true to your promises.” Loyalty is when you stand firm to your friends, to your family, and to your promises. It’s also when you can turn down temptation that would seem more fun to do at the time. Loyalty is always what I look for in a friend.</p>
<p>You can use loyalty wherever you go – school, outside, at home, or even in the small unimportant places. Loyalty is a key characteristic that you should look for in people. If you see allegiance and faithfulness shining out of someone’s personality, you know that they have a great loyal quality!</p>
<p>At school, loyal acts happen all over. If someone’s friends invite them to play, but that person had earlier promised to help another friend understand an assignment, it is a king and loyal act to stay and do what you’ve already told someone you’d do.</p>
<p>If, at a friend’s house, I am told to come home to help my cousin babysit like I promised earlier, staying at my friend’s house instead of helping my cousin, which was my earlier commitment, would not be an example of loyalty.</p>
<p>Loyalty is being faithful to what you’ve already told someone you would do. It’s helping out a friend in need, assisting your cousin, and even the small, unimportant things, like grabbing your friend a piece of paper like you earlier told them you would do instead of talking with another friend at the other table. Can you find loyalty in your friends? Can they find it in you? Look for loyalty.</p>
<p>Elijah -</p>
<p>The definition of loyalty is: the state or quality of being loyal; faithfulness to commitments.</p>
<p>I like loyal friends because they can help you out. In return, they expect you to help them our, too. Remember, a loyal friend will stay until the end. If you need to do something, but you don’t have time, you could ask your loyal friend.</p>
<p>So, no you have my opinion of loyalty. I hop that you can find a friend that is loyal. It is greatly beneficial to life.</p>
<p>Saleena -</p>
<p>Loyalty: faithful to a cause. Faithful to someone to whom fidelity is held to be don. Loyalty is also to the mother and father who gave birth to you. Loyalty must be instilled in you as a child from your parents.</p>
<p>Loyalty is something that cannot be bought. Loyalty must be earned. The nearest thing to loyalty is a mother’s love. Remain loyal when things are not going smoothly. The greatest loyalty in life is to “thine own self be true.” We also find our loyalty in God and Jesus. Loyalty for our teachers and instructors.</p>Healthtag:www.authors.com,2016-12-16:3798404:BlogPost:2043052016-12-16T00:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="health" class="wp-image-2350 aligncenter" height="235" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/12/health.jpg" width="354"></img> More student essays on health:</p>
<p>Stella -</p>
<p>I think that being healthy means you need to exercise and eat good fruits and veggies before you eat chocolate for dessert. I like to eat corn, tomatoes, berries, apples, strawberries, oranges, and mangoes. I eat them as part of every meal</p>
<p>I like to exercise every day by riding my bike, running around, go swimming at the pool. I play every day and exercise with my mommy and daddy at home.</p>
<p>I do not currently…</p>
<p><img class="wp-image-2350 aligncenter" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/12/health.jpg" alt="health" width="354" height="235"/>More student essays on health:</p>
<p>Stella -</p>
<p>I think that being healthy means you need to exercise and eat good fruits and veggies before you eat chocolate for dessert. I like to eat corn, tomatoes, berries, apples, strawberries, oranges, and mangoes. I eat them as part of every meal</p>
<p>I like to exercise every day by riding my bike, running around, go swimming at the pool. I play every day and exercise with my mommy and daddy at home.</p>
<p>I do not currently practice karate at home, but want to try practicing more to get better at pivots because they are hard for me.</p>
<p>I like practicing every week at practice.</p>
<p>Amber -</p>
<p>Eating vegetables and fruits. Doing my karate class. Brushing my teeth. Going out for a walk. Playing at the park. Going on vacation. Having a pet to play with and going to the pool. Reading books. Jumping on the trampoline.</p>
<p>Saleena -</p>
<p>Exercises. Swimming. Eating the right food. Taking a shower every day. Brushing your teeth. Taking a vacation. Have a pet around. Doing karate class. Fruits and vegetables.</p>
<p>Madison -</p>
<p>Why do we exercise? Health. Good health is important. If you don’t have good health, you could get sick easily.</p>Communication Skills - 10tag:www.authors.com,2016-11-04:3798404:BlogPost:2035872016-11-04T21:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Woman listening gossip" class="alignnone wp-image-2059 align-center" height="287" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/listen.jpg?w=680" width="431"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>LISTEN...REALLY LISTEN</strong></p>
<p>This last point is something with which many of us have a problem.</p>
<p>How many times have you forgotten a person's name almost immediately after being introduced? How many are so eager to tell our story/opinion that we don't wait until the other person is finished?</p>
<p>Previous posts - #5, #6, #9, all depend on listening. Actual listening. Not just hearing.</p>
<p>I'm guilty, too, of the…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-2059 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/listen.jpg?w=680" alt="Woman listening gossip" width="431" height="287"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>LISTEN...REALLY LISTEN</strong></p>
<p>This last point is something with which many of us have a problem.</p>
<p>How many times have you forgotten a person's name almost immediately after being introduced? How many are so eager to tell our story/opinion that we don't wait until the other person is finished?</p>
<p>Previous posts - #5, #6, #9, all depend on listening. Actual listening. Not just hearing.</p>
<p>I'm guilty, too, of the above, and try to improve the next time.</p>
<p>How would listening give me a better chance at getting a positive result on the question of dinner with my lady on Friday night? Or of even being able to ask the question in the first place.</p>
<p>I'm a bit stumped on this one.</p>
<p>Maybe listening to talk around the work place whenever her name is mentioned to gain me more information about her. Maybe a subtle question about her if the circumstance warrants it.</p>
<p>Maybe listening to my inner voice for the right moment. Maybe NOT paying attention to the one that tells me I'm a fool. Maybe listening to my heart that tells me to take a risk and go for it. It's a yes or no question so there's a toss of the coin odds. Maybe NOT paying heed to the imp in the shadows trying to talk me out of it.</p>
<p>So, there they are. Ten points for better social interaction. I've related them to a personal issue and I'll bet there are issues where some of these might benefit you, or at least to help smooth over a couple rough spots.</p>
<p>Any further suggestions are appreciated. I'll listen to them.</p>Communication Skills - 9tag:www.authors.com,2016-10-28:3798404:BlogPost:2036802016-10-28T19:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Empathy" class="alignnone wp-image-2054 align-center" height="300" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/empathy.jpg?w=680" width="449"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>EMPATHY</strong></p>
<p>Reviewing last week's post at the point where I mentioned my creative answer to a rejection. The part about her switching to a yes because of my sincere heart.</p>
<p>This sincerity fits with this week's topic. How many times have you told a story or explained a situation and the other person's expression is blank or else tosses off a token sympathy statement?</p>
<p>Sympathy and empathy have different meanings. If…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-2054 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/empathy.jpg?w=680" alt="Empathy" width="449" height="300"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>EMPATHY</strong></p>
<p>Reviewing last week's post at the point where I mentioned my creative answer to a rejection. The part about her switching to a yes because of my sincere heart.</p>
<p>This sincerity fits with this week's topic. How many times have you told a story or explained a situation and the other person's expression is blank or else tosses off a token sympathy statement?</p>
<p>Sympathy and empathy have different meanings. If you're sympathetic, you feel sorry that another person experienced a bad time. Empathy means you're sharing that emotion. You might feel closer to the person because you've experienced something similar. Or by sharing or having that emotion, you might be able to better help the other person.</p>
<p>In social situations, empathy can be shown by showing that similar experience with a short story of your own. Maybe a gesture or a hand on the shoulder and some sincere words. Avoid trite phrases, but offer to assist it the situation calls for it.</p>
<p>What about asking my coworker for a date? Again, a bit of the above might be used on the first date. I would need to be involved with with her words, really listen (discussed next time), tailoring my responses and watch what words I used.</p>
<p>Backing up to the asking, I think the sincerity of my offer is key, the emotions I put into my words. No, I don't mean begging for an evening of dinner and dancing (yes, I do now how to dance), but something a bit more solid than, “Hey! You. Me. Dinner. Friday night. What do you say?” Brief and specific as discussed in a previous post, but hardly the real <i>feeling</i> exhibited.</p>
<p>I don't think the sincerity will be the problem. Exhibited confidence, yes. Confidence in voice and stature is needed. Avoiding the <i>desperation</i> attitude can be overcome by strong confidence.</p>
<p>If that is shown, then empathy and the sincerity will be there.</p>
<p>Any suggestions?</p>Communication Skills - 8tag:www.authors.com,2016-10-21:3798404:BlogPost:2033882016-10-21T19:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="KISS" class="alignnone wp-image-2049 align-center" height="216" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/kiss.png?w=680" width="462"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>KISS</strong></p>
<p>The acronym and the word fits the theme of this series. Because that first kiss is a wonderful goal. To back up a few steps is where the oft used phrase comes into play. Usually related to speeches, I think it also can be used for asking for a date.</p>
<p>Be brief and be specific. This brings to mind post #2, the avoidance of rambling. Again, get in, say what needs to be said, get out.</p>
<p>Well, stay in if…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-2049 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/kiss.png?w=680" alt="KISS" width="462" height="216"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>KISS</strong></p>
<p>The acronym and the word fits the theme of this series. Because that first kiss is a wonderful goal. To back up a few steps is where the oft used phrase comes into play. Usually related to speeches, I think it also can be used for asking for a date.</p>
<p>Be brief and be specific. This brings to mind post #2, the avoidance of rambling. Again, get in, say what needs to be said, get out.</p>
<p>Well, stay in if – <i>when! Think positive – </i>she says yes. Not too long, just long enough to nail down details (time to meet or an address at which to pick her up). If the answer is no – don't go into it thinking the worst, but if – I think a well wish for the rest of her day to be productive is fine, then get out.</p>
<p>“I have an extra ticket to the jazz concert this Friday evening at the Des Moines Social Club and was wondering if you'd like to join me.”</p>
<p>Simple. Brief. A few more words than, “Would you like to go out to dinner Friday night?” More words mean a greater chance of stuttering or a problem of mine: talking to fast. I'd have to practice (yes, we do this, ladies, and yes, it sounds silly. But we do.) to get the rhythm, the flow, the casual-ness to come through instead of sounding like I've rehearsed my opening line for a high school play.</p>
<p>I also think my question is more creative (specific) than the typical dinner line. It reminds me of a F.R.I.END.S. episode where Rachel wanted to ask out Joshua and she said she had two tickets to the Nicks game. Before she could include herself, he had assumed she was offering the tickets to him for being a good customer in her clothing department and he was going to take his male buddy. The next scene showed Rachel and Joey and she's saying the line, “I have an <i>extra</i> ticket...”</p>
<p>Anyway, back to the topic. My prospective lady doesn't have to know the Des Moines Social Club's jazz nights don't require tickets (of course this is ruined if she's just read this blog), but a slight deception isn't bad, is it? It's not that slight since lately there's a woman at the door announcing a $6 donation is requested, which sort of sounds like an admittance fee. No <i>actual</i> ticket, but…</p>
<p>Brief and specific. I thought of the jazz concert because: 1. I like jazz. 2. I think she's classy enough. 3. The venue is cozy. 4. The musicians play from 5:30-7:30 with a break after 45 minutes. 5. This is good because the break offers a chance to leave if desired to go to dinner.</p>
<p>Of course my creative mind thinks of romantic movie lines if her answer is no.</p>
<p>“Well,” I'd say, “I had to to start at the top.”</p>
<p>She'd cock her head. “What do you mean?”</p>
<p>I'd shrug. “Well, I'll have to lower my standards a whole lot finding another date.”</p>
<p>She'd smile and, impressed with my sincerity, changer her mind.</p>
<p>Can I write romance, or what? Ask me someday about the first couple, three dates.</p>
<p>Anyway, this post hasn't been too brief, but it has been specific.</p>
<p>What lines have you used when asking out your intended sweetheart?</p>Communication Skills - 7tag:www.authors.com,2016-10-14:3798404:BlogPost:2035862016-10-14T19:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Whatchu talking about" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2045 align-center" height="348" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/whatchu-talking-about.jpg" width="464"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>WHATCHU' TALKIN' ABOUT</strong></p>
<p>Whenever Willis said something to evoke this question from his brother, it usually involved either a crazy scheme to extract themselves from troublesome situation or involved an important lesson Arnold didn't quite comprehend.</p>
<p>If Willis had tailored the message properly, he might not have had to explain it.</p>
<p>Politicians do this a lot. Prepare a speech to be favorable to whatever group…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2045 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/whatchu-talking-about.jpg" alt="Whatchu talking about" width="464" height="348"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>WHATCHU' TALKIN' ABOUT</strong></p>
<p>Whenever Willis said something to evoke this question from his brother, it usually involved either a crazy scheme to extract themselves from troublesome situation or involved an important lesson Arnold didn't quite comprehend.</p>
<p>If Willis had tailored the message properly, he might not have had to explain it.</p>
<p>Politicians do this a lot. Prepare a speech to be favorable to whatever group they're facing. This works fine unless you're telling how much you love banks to a group of working executives and turn around and say to a bunch of lower middle class home buyers how you hate bankers.</p>
<p>Salesman-basically politicians with possibly a touch more integrity-do the same thing. Figure out what the customer wants, then highlight those aspects of service/product that match the customer's needs.</p>
<p>Again, you may ask, what does this have to do with securing an evening with the lovely lady at work?</p>
<p>Talking to her before I suggest a date might help me plan the type of date that she'd like. Throughout these posts I've had various ideas for activities-jazz, comedy, sports-but I really don't know. My impression of her is that she's sophisticated and classy. I've never seen her wear anything but professional attire. We graphic artists and assistants wear anything from shorts and t-shirts to jeans and polo shirts. A few times a couple of the women wear dresses. But the lady's job is part of marketing, so she has to dress the part.</p>
<p>Because of this, maybe a suggestion of doing a Mud Run wouldn't go over as well as checking out the latest art gallery. Personally, I would be bored, but that's another story.</p>
<p>That's why I want to tailor the message. That's why the idea of an hour or two at the local jazz venue seems a good middle ground. A little classier than the local band at the local bar/nightclub. Not as sophisticated as the opera which, to be honest, let's kill me now before I suffer foreign language screeching sopranos and drum barrel basses.</p>
<p>Okay, Steve, you have the music, what about the food? For her, fast food to family restaurants, I think, would be a non-starter. Tapping the bank for a loan to hit the French places might be over the top. A nice Italian, Greek or sit-down-relax-with better menu selections than 'breakfast all day' would be the way to go. I'd have to have plan with alternatives in case she'd want to splurge and go for, you know, pizza.</p>
<p>I know, I know, I actually have to get to this step first, but the plan needs to be in place when the time comes.</p>
<p>What are your suggestions for a first date?</p>Communication Skills - 6tag:www.authors.com,2016-10-07:3798404:BlogPost:2034802016-10-07T19:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Distractions" class="alignnone wp-image-2040 align-center" height="342" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/distractions.jpg?w=680" width="513"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>DISTRACTIONS</strong></p>
<p>As an author, I'm constantly reminded to remove distractions and write. Turn off the Internet, close down Facebook, turn off the phone.</p>
<p>We have become a techno-crazy world where common sense and simply courtesy have been replaced by the latest Snap Chat or Instagram image. Where a family at a restaurant all will be plinking on their phones instead of, you know, talking to each other.</p>
<p>So, in…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-2040 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/distractions.jpg?w=680" alt="Distractions" width="513" height="342"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>DISTRACTIONS</strong></p>
<p>As an author, I'm constantly reminded to remove distractions and write. Turn off the Internet, close down Facebook, turn off the phone.</p>
<p>We have become a techno-crazy world where common sense and simply courtesy have been replaced by the latest Snap Chat or Instagram image. Where a family at a restaurant all will be plinking on their phones instead of, you know, talking to each other.</p>
<p>So, in social settings this is key. Intelligent conversation or business discussions can be ruined by a text from the guy in the next office...or the restroom.</p>
<p>I can understand the necessity for this. Talk to someone, develop a one on one, face to face relationship. Turn off the phone, turn off the pager, turn off the Kindle (unless you're reading my book, then I can understand if you tell the person to wait. Better yet, share my book).</p>
<p>How would this point work with getting a date with the lady in my building? Well, at the time of this writing, I see her only during a brief lunch break. She doesn't spend the entire half hour in the break room, so my window of opportunity is small.</p>
<p>For me, removing distractions would include not only my phone or my Nook, but other people.</p>
<p>If you remember my first point in this series, I mentions my terror of talking to women. Bolstering myself to talk to this woman, then asking her to dinner followed by drinks and improv music at Java Joes would be much easier if nobody else was within sight. Preferably I would have nobody within a half mile radius, but that mean most of downtown would have to be vacated. I'd settle for nobody at the neighboring tables, at the coffee machine, or a crowd in front of the television, or anybody entering or leaving through the office building entrance.</p>
<p>For this utopian scene to exist means the time frame for talking/questions is even smaller. It reduces still further because she doesn't always visit the cafe during lunch break, or else not at the time I'm there.</p>
<p>I suppose to make this happen, I'd have to be quick, as mentioned before. Get in, a fast hello, get to the point, accept her answer and get out. Hope nobody is a witness.</p>
<p>No distractions to throw me off track.</p>
<p>How do you avoid these?</p>Communication Skills - 5tag:www.authors.com,2016-09-30:3798404:BlogPost:2034792016-09-30T19:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Question Everything" class="alignnone wp-image-2035 align-center" height="430" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/question-everything.jpg?w=680" width="322"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>QUESTION EVERYTHING</strong></p>
<p>Whenever I have a chance to speak with people from another country, I consider myself lucky. I may never have a chance to visit, so if allowed, I question extensively to learn as much as possible.</p>
<p>In social settings, the emphasis is on questioning and then repeating the other person. Of course, not every word verbatim, but a main or interesting aspect of the answer. This may lead to other…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-2035 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/question-everything.jpg?w=680" alt="Question Everything" width="322" height="430"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>QUESTION EVERYTHING</strong></p>
<p>Whenever I have a chance to speak with people from another country, I consider myself lucky. I may never have a chance to visit, so if allowed, I question extensively to learn as much as possible.</p>
<p>In social settings, the emphasis is on questioning and then repeating the other person. Of course, not every word verbatim, but a main or interesting aspect of the answer. This may lead to other questions, discovery of common interests, business deals, etc. Repetition shows that you are listening instead of just hearing.</p>
<p>So, how does this listen/repeat help me get a date with the lady from my building? Maybe, if I sit with her during lunch, if allowed, and simply talk with her. Instead of outright asking for an afternoon at a local downtown event followed by dinner and nice conversation would be a good beginning.</p>
<p>I could ask about the projects she's working on, those that took her away from the project we'd been assigned. Surely something would strike an interest.</p>
<p>So, more homework for you. This next week, in conversation, question and repeat and report back.</p>Communication Skills - 4tag:www.authors.com,2016-09-23:3798404:BlogPost:2033872016-09-23T19:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Story telling" class="alignnone wp-image-2030 align-center" height="301" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/story-telling.jpg?w=680" width="377"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>STORY TELLING</strong></p>
<p>Of all the points in this dating discussion, next week's and this week's are two where I'm above average.</p>
<p>Oh yeah, I can tell a story. Sixteen long years as a night desk clerk at four motels, I've collected scores of stories. Living in an apartment house with a revolving door of criminal tenants (including the landlord), still more. Vacations, odd jobs, family, Uber passengers...where would you like to…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-2030 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/story-telling.jpg?w=680" alt="Story telling" width="377" height="301"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>STORY TELLING</strong></p>
<p>Of all the points in this dating discussion, next week's and this week's are two where I'm above average.</p>
<p>Oh yeah, I can tell a story. Sixteen long years as a night desk clerk at four motels, I've collected scores of stories. Living in an apartment house with a revolving door of criminal tenants (including the landlord), still more. Vacations, odd jobs, family, Uber passengers...where would you like to begin?</p>
<p>Stories can be humorous, serious, but like the written word, should have a beginning, a bit of conflict, a resolution, and an ending.</p>
<p>Apply the K.I.S.S. principle with the first S standing for Simple but also can stand for Short. Don't run on and on to where the other person is bored. Hit the high points, finish strong, and leave him/her interested in another.</p>
<p>With the lady I'm thinking about, I could do that. With friends and family, story telling is no problem. My fear is telling a story to this woman would sound like a ten year old boy talking about catching frogs by the muddy lake shore.</p>
<p>I think it would be okay once that initial ice breaker is breached. Nerves wouldn't be as on edge but my next concern would be how not to lose the conversation...and knowing when to end it and, yes, make on invitation for a future one.</p>
<p>Are you good at story telling? Yes, authors, I know you are, but what about the verbal anecdotes or, “Let me tell you what this guy did last weekend...”</p>Communication Skills - 3tag:www.authors.com,2016-09-16:3798404:BlogPost:2033862016-09-16T18:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Small Talk" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2026 align-center" height="307" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/small-talk.jpg" width="385"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>SMALL TALK</strong></p>
<p>Last week's topic, but a quirk of coincidences, leads into this week's.</p>
<p>Making friends first, discussing interests.</p>
<p>The third point sent to me suggested having a small talk script. I don't exactly what it means, but I might venture that having two or three pieces of information to make about topics helps avoid a long silence while struggling for something to say that doesn't sound like you're…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2026 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/small-talk.jpg" alt="Small Talk" width="385" height="307"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>SMALL TALK</strong></p>
<p>Last week's topic, but a quirk of coincidences, leads into this week's.</p>
<p>Making friends first, discussing interests.</p>
<p>The third point sent to me suggested having a small talk script. I don't exactly what it means, but I might venture that having two or three pieces of information to make about topics helps avoid a long silence while struggling for something to say that doesn't sound like you're struggling for something to say. Or avoiding the opposite, where you're rambling and babbling the topic to exhaustion.</p>
<p>In my self defense courses, I urge the women to have two or three options for a given situation. If the first doesn't work or isn't effective enough, instantly switch to something else.</p>
<p>This might work with small talk. Have a few points and see in which direction the conversation is heading and choose one point that seems the best. If the opportunity presents itself, bring up another.</p>
<p>Sometimes you have to think fast on your feet. The talk may veer into an area about which you're clueless. What then?</p>
<p>This one is easy because I do this a lot. Ask questions. This is actually Dating Point #5 to be posted at a later date. However, nothing says this series of topics can't cross over into each other's territory...and probably should.</p>
<p>Back to scripts. Don't have a cheat sheet. Be intelligent, practice speaking and memorize your points to the point they don't sound memorized, but have a natural flow.</p>
<p>With my potential date, I would have no problem listening and asking questions. The few times I've been able to make my contributions, I hope I haven't sounded like a dork asking the cheerleader he favorite ice cream flavor.</p>
<p>Have you tried this? We authors have our speeches prepared for presentations and answers for interviews, but what about with a person of the opposite sex for whom you'd like to know better, say at a Cubs game preceded by dinner?</p>
<p>Who knows, she might go for that.</p>Communication Skills - 2tag:www.authors.com,2016-09-09:3798404:BlogPost:2033852016-09-09T18:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Unnecessary talk" class="alignnone wp-image-2020 align-center" height="425" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/unnecessary-talk.jpg?w=680" width="425"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>UNNECESSARY SKILLS</strong></p>
<p>We're delving into the dating dilemma – how to better go about my getting one.</p>
<p>Of course, the most talked about way is to make a friend first, then see where it goes. Find common ground, interests, etc.</p>
<p>When the time comes to ask for an evening out, I've read where it is goo to start with an opening, an observation, then ease into the actual invitation. If you see she likes coffee, mention…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-2020 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/unnecessary-talk.jpg?w=680" alt="Unnecessary talk" width="425" height="425"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>UNNECESSARY SKILLS</strong></p>
<p>We're delving into the dating dilemma – how to better go about my getting one.</p>
<p>Of course, the most talked about way is to make a friend first, then see where it goes. Find common ground, interests, etc.</p>
<p>When the time comes to ask for an evening out, I've read where it is goo to start with an opening, an observation, then ease into the actual invitation. If you see she likes coffee, mention that you heard there was a shop you've been meaning to visit...would you…</p>
<p>Since I don't like coffee, that specific scenario is out...maybe.</p>
<p>Anyway, my point is, get to the point. Don't ramble on with talk that won't go anywhere. I'm not going to set a word or time limit, but referencing last week's post, watch her body language, her willingness to continuing conversing.</p>
<p>Get in, say a few words, then ask.</p>
<p>The problem for me is that common ground. There is a specific woman I'd like to date, but she and I work in different departments, one opposite sides of the building. We've spoken one on one on one maybe a total of four times. About business.</p>
<p>Say that I pluck up the nerve to talk to her...what about? By starting any conversation, do I risk revealing myself? Would that be a bad thing?</p>
<p>I don't know. What are thoughts on small talk?</p>Communication Skills - 1tag:www.authors.com,2016-09-02:3798404:BlogPost:2032772016-09-02T18:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Body Language" class="alignnone wp-image-2010 align-center" height="290" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/body-language.jpg" width="393"></img></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>BODY LANGUAGE</strong></p>
<p>Now that I have a day job (well, actually early morning to middle/late afternoon job, thank you overtime) I've been I've been spending many evenings and weekends out on the town. I've noticed (and how could I not) the plethora of attractive women in this here capital burg. More specifically, the number of them at my place of employment.</p>
<p>Do I approach any for a date? Are you kidding me? Why not, you…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone wp-image-2010 align-center" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/body-language.jpg" alt="Body Language" width="393" height="290"/></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>BODY LANGUAGE</strong></p>
<p>Now that I have a day job (well, actually early morning to middle/late afternoon job, thank you overtime) I've been I've been spending many evenings and weekends out on the town. I've noticed (and how could I not) the plethora of attractive women in this here capital burg. More specifically, the number of them at my place of employment.</p>
<p>Do I approach any for a date? Are you kidding me? Why not, you ask? Because I'm petrified when it comes to women. Think I'm joking? Think again. Even striking up an innocent conversation requires me to psych myself up.</p>
<p>I can talk to a crowd about my books and writing. I can instruction children and adults in self defense techniques. Talking to a pretty lady – I'm stricken silent.</p>
<p>So, I'm thinking about one particular woman and trying to figure out how to talk to her on any of the rare occasions I see her. Early in July, I received a company wide email listing ten points for better communication. I thought I'd write a series of blogs from the point of view of writing and authors. Speaking at conferences, authors fairs, and the like, but decided to make it more personal, open up and expose myself (uh, figuratively of course) and see if writing might help me (and maybe others with a similar problem) to find a way through that wall. I had hoped to have a ten week block where I could run these sequentially, but they may be interrupted by one of those pesky authors. But I'll do the best I can.</p>
<p>Before I discuss the first point, let me say that I have broken through a few times. The number of rejections vastly outnumber the successes. I definitely need to start balancing out the scale.</p>
<p>First up is a good one for beginning the discussion: Body Language.</p>
<p>How often do I tell the women in the self defense classes not to 'look like a victim'? Stand up straight, shoulders back, head up, eyes looking at the surroundings. Walk confident, with a purpose. Don't withdraw, cur up, head and eyes down or shrink away.</p>
<p>But that's what I do when <i>she</i> enters the room. I look down, physically feel myself withdraw inside.</p>
<p>I think the first impression is expression. So, I've been working on entering new places where there are people with whom I might converse with a smile on my face. Arms uncrossed, open, ready for a handshake. When <i>she</i> walks by, I'm ready with a smile.</p>
<p>Crossed arms or a frown are turnoffs. They tell people to leave you alone. They give off a defensive attitude and when I'm looking for a night at the jazz concert followed by dinner, defense is not how to play.</p>
<p>Think about how you stand, where you put your hands (in pants pockets or on hips, near your face), your posture when standing or sitting. What is your expression? Are you looking down or do you look 'em in the eye?</p>
<p>Confidence is key in body language. The correct projected attitude goes a long way.</p>
<p>So, your homework assignment-and mine-is to practice proper and beneficial body language. Let me know how it works.</p>Adult Truth #22tag:www.authors.com,2016-08-19:3798404:BlogPost:2029592016-08-19T00:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p class="western"><img alt="#22" class="wp-image-1973 aligncenter" height="209" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/22.jpg" width="353"></img> “<i>Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.”</i></p>
<p class="western">Why does this happen to us? Because we're really not paying attention in the first place.</p>
<p class="western">I have a difficult time remembering names. I see familiar faces but names escape me. However, after listening to a short audio book giving tips to landing a second job interview I made a goal that I would endeavor to remember…</p>
<p class="western"><img class="wp-image-1973 aligncenter" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/08/22.jpg" alt="#22" width="353" height="209"/>“<i>Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.”</i></p>
<p class="western">Why does this happen to us? Because we're really not paying attention in the first place.</p>
<p class="western">I have a difficult time remembering names. I see familiar faces but names escape me. However, after listening to a short audio book giving tips to landing a second job interview I made a goal that I would endeavor to remember people's names.</p>
<p class="western">Not knowing names is not good for authors. Now, I'm not saying you have to remember every fan wanting an autograph. If you say hello to a person buying your book at a library appearance and six years later that same person greets you on the street, I don't expect you to remember his name even though he'll know you. However, if you're at a conference and are schmoozing with agents / publishers, you might want to lock those names in place for future reference.</p>
<p class="western">When you're introduced, repeat the other person's name to yourself three times. Then make sure when talking with that person to repeat the name. “So, Bob, could you explain the whale blubber diet you mentioned earlier?”</p>
<p class="western">Another trick is to relate the person's name to something pertaining to that individual. For example: Bob. He's into whale blubber. Whales are big fish. (Yeah, I know, whales are mammals, but work with me here, folks.) To go fishing you need a BOBber.</p>
<p class="western">Or, maybe the guy is bald and his head looks like the white part of a bobber. (or the red part if he's sunburned.)</p>
<p class="western">Remembering names is important with the industry where I'm working at the time of this writing. (By post time, who knows? Long sordid story, not worth getting into now.) With hospitality, getting to know the names of regular guests is good customer service. Knowing their routine is also beneficial. For instance, I have a few customers for whom I try to have their receipt ready by the time they come down to check out. I've learned to recognize a few names when guests call to book a reservation. There was a crew of inventory takers a few years ago for whom I had to prepare a large breakfast because they snarfed it up like a swarm of locusts on a cornfield.</p>
<p class="western">Much of remembering names is focus and, as I mentioned above, paying attention in the first place. You have to make a conscious decision to remember. Don't overestimate your mind. Don't think you'll remember later. You may not. Temporary short term memory loss can be a critical situation.</p>
<p class="western">Of course I don't need to mention (but will anyway because I need to fill space), to smile, have a pleasant tone, and even have a few questions (standard though they may be) ready if you find you have a few minutes with a person. I enjoy speaking with foreigners (and I don't mean people from California. Sorry, Sunny. Lol) I'm from Iowa. Corn, soybeans, hogs. Pretty blasé unless you've never seen a gazillion acres of corn or smelled the ripe odor of a confinement pen. My opportunity for travel has so far been limited to a few weeks between semesters in college when I traveled to Mexico. So when I hear an accent that isn't Midwestern twang I take a second listen and look. I'm interested in other cultures and if people are willing to discuss their homeland, I'll listen and ask questions. I may even do this for folks from other parts of America.</p>
<p class="western">Just a side note: if you're an attractive woman from the United Kingdom or were born and raised south of the Mason-Dixon line, and you speak to me...oh my! Those accents drive me crazy in a good way. In fact, I'll forget the guy from North Dakota who buys all my books and wants a picture with me if the Southern belle or the Britisher will spend fifteen minutes just talking to me. Okay, make it thirty. I probably wouldn't care about the topic. You could wax philosophical about the whale blubber diet and my ears will be in rapturous delight at your voice.</p>
<p class="western">Anyway, where was I? Sorry, I was conjuring up a scenario where I'm happily stuck between an Irish lass and a Georgia Peach.</p>
<p class="western">Anyway...</p>
<p class="western">People are happy when you remember their names. They show you more respect and courtesy. If you need one, keep a notebook or carry their business cards. The worst thing I can do is re-visit a place where I'm trying to make an impression and have to say to the receptionist, “Uh, yeah, I was here two weeks ago and I spoke to, uh, somebody in the promotions department. I can't recall who she was...”</p>
<p class="western">I've instantly lost points.</p>
<p class="western">...and I still don't know what time it is.</p>Game Daytag:www.authors.com,2016-07-14:3798404:BlogPost:2023942016-07-14T23:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="game day fans" class="size-full wp-image-1884 aligncenter" height="308" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/game-day-fans.jpg" width="585"></img> Living here in Des Moines, I am able to attend many events. Jazz concerts, comedy shows, and sports. We have the Des Moines Buccaneers and Iowa Wild hockey teams, Iowa Energy basketball, and Iowa Cubs baseball. I’ve attended all but the Bucs. I would like to point out a few things about the games, the arenas, and the other fans.</p>
<p>I thought about discussing just baseball, but realized the points I make, might be relevant to all.</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Watch the game. This is the…</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p><img class="size-full wp-image-1884 aligncenter" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/game-day-fans.jpg" alt="game day fans" width="585" height="308"/>Living here in Des Moines, I am able to attend many events. Jazz concerts, comedy shows, and sports. We have the Des Moines Buccaneers and Iowa Wild hockey teams, Iowa Energy basketball, and Iowa Cubs baseball. I’ve attended all but the Bucs. I would like to point out a few things about the games, the arenas, and the other fans.</p>
<p>I thought about discussing just baseball, but realized the points I make, might be relevant to all.</p>
<ol>
<li><p>Watch the game. This is the biggest area of amazement. Okay, you’ve paid anywhere from $14.00 on up per ticket. For some, especially families, that’s goanna cost. This does not include the food and souvenirs should you want any. Sorry to use the same word twice so soon, but I’m amazed at how many people are NOT watching the game for which they paid to see. I understand letting the little ones blow off some steam on the play equipment (at the baseball stadium), but at any given time, there are scores of people walking around in the vending area, outside the arena.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>At one basketball game I saw: a birthday party group who showed up late in the first quarter. About ten kids in all. Two adults went for food and didn’t get seated until almost halftime. Then in the middle of the third quarter, everybody stood and left. I assume they went to the birthday party area, but did anybody watch the game? I mean, even with discounts, that’s an expensive birthday.</p>
<p>I come to watch the game. Sure, I may get up for food or to answer the call of nature, but I’m there to see some competition, not wander around. Do that before the game. If I want to play, I could save myself the money and just go outside at home.</p>
<ol start="2">
<li><p>Speaking of children… I’m not a parent, so I may be off the mark a bit, but what harm is it in keeping the children in line, disciplined, and courteous?</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>A few weeks ago a friend and I attended a Cubs game. I had won general admission tickets. We sat a couple seats from the end of a row. During the first part of the game, we had to listen to three loudmouth children who had no supervision. They moved but were replaced by a family with three children 5 years old and younger. For the remainder of our stay, they proceeded to kick and bump our chairs, edge out into the stair/walk way impeding traffic, and yelling. Now, I don’t mind a bit of yelling at a ballgame. I mean, you’re outside, the game is going great, you’re cheering on your team. However, cheering for your team, does not mean screaming into the ears of the people in front of you.</p>
<p>Oh, and the father kept spilling beer on my friend’s purse. She told me later that the next day, it failed the Breathalyzer.</p>
<p>I’m sorry, but these places (and this goes for any county/state fair) are not for babies. First off, they can’t enjoy the game. Second, they’re babies. They need constant attention and don’t understand the thousands of people around them and why there is so much noise. There are these people called babysitters. Hire one of them.</p>
<p>I think this section also applies to the adults who act like children. Loud, discourteous to those around them. I remember a time I attended a bull fight in Mexico (okay, this doesn’t qualify as a sport in any sense of the word and won’t go to another one. I thought the event cruel and stupid and kept hoping the bull would win). While trying to find some enjoyment out of the event, I had to endure two drunk New Yorkers who kept shouting “Ole!” every minute or two. Sheesh, give me a break.</p>
<ol start="3">
<li><p>Seating. Okay, I understand that arenas and stadiums want to cram as many people in as possible. Money. But could it hurt to make the seats a bit more comfortable? As in a little bigger? With a tad more leg room? When I attended the Cubs game on the 4<sup>th </sup>of July, I bought a ticket the day of the game and wound up in a last row seat in one of grandstand sections. Now, there really isn’t a bad seat at this park. Well, maybe if you’re in the right field end seats or up at the tables with the beer tables. But, hey, if you’re up there, you’re not really caring about the game, right? You’ve found an outside bar with a game that’s live in front of you instead of on the big screen.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>No, I didn’t mind the location, I just hadn’t realized that the last row was built for people who aren’t 6’2”. I tolerated two innings crammed in there with my legs tucked under the seat, people on either side of me (including one guy on my left who kept telling his wife the stats of the players as they came to the plate, as if she couldn’t read the scoreboard herself). Then I moved. I had to pee and I thought if I couldn’t find another seat within the grandstand area (heaven forbid you should try to sit in another area that has empty seats) I’d stand. The couple to my right also decided they weren’t going to stay, either. Surprisingly, we all found seats lower down in the same section.</p>
<p><a name="_GoBack" class="mce-item-anchor"></a> I’ll always remember the time some friends and I attended a pro wrestling event in Cedar Rapids. There were about nine of us and just as the event began I felt something drip on my shoulder. I thought it was somebody throwing food. I realized it was some icky substance dripping from the ceiling. I mentioned it to a staff worker and after a short wait, we were all moved…to a VIP section with free drinks and t-shirts. I think the coolest part, though, was near the end of the evening, one of the top wrestlers made an appearance right behind us (the storyline was he was haunting the bad guys by showing up in different parts of whatever arena they happened to be in.) I thought we did all right with those seats.</p>
<p>Anyway, let’s have fun out there at the game. Watch out for those around you. Be aware of your surroundings. I hope you chose a good seat.</p>
<p>Play ball!</p>Student Courtesytag:www.authors.com,2016-07-07:3798404:BlogPost:2025172016-07-07T23:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="courtesy for student" class="wp-image-1881 alignleft" height="261" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/courtesy-for-student.jpg" width="420"></img> Every month, I change the theme for class. At the end of each month, students are required to write a one page essay on that particular theme. Here are some essays on Courtesy.</p>
<p><b>Saleena</b></p>
<p>Courtesy is a polite remark, polite behavior, a polite action of a person with good manners and consideration of others. A polite speech and action and also civility and respect.</p>
<p>Say polite things when we meet. Someone with consideration and…</p>
<p><img class="wp-image-1881 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/07/courtesy-for-student.jpg" alt="courtesy for student" width="420" height="261"/>Every month, I change the theme for class. At the end of each month, students are required to write a one page essay on that particular theme. Here are some essays on Courtesy.</p>
<p><b>Saleena</b></p>
<p>Courtesy is a polite remark, polite behavior, a polite action of a person with good manners and consideration of others. A polite speech and action and also civility and respect.</p>
<p>Say polite things when we meet. Someone with consideration and cooperation.</p>
<p><b>Maddie</b></p>
<p>I use courtesy at home. I use courtesy at school. I use courtesy at taekwondo. I use courtesy at grandma's. I use courtesy at dad's. I use courtesy at Stef's. I use courtesy at Sherly's. I use courtesy everyday. I use courtesy everywhere. I use courtesy all the time.</p>
<p><b>Stella</b></p>
<p>When I am at school, courtesy is not messing with the other kids and leaving them along. It is listening to the teachers and helpers to what they want to tell us.</p>
<p>At home, courtesy is picking up after supper and putting the dishes in the dishwasher. Helping my little brother get things that are too tall for him is another good courtesy thing I do at home. '</p>
<p>When I am at school, I help take kids to the office when they get sick which I think is very courteous.</p>
<p>I like it when people show me courtesy, it makes me feel good.</p>
<p>I like to teach my classmates and friends new games which I think is courteous to teach someone something new.</p>
<p>I do not like it when kids in my class do not show good courtesy, it is disruptive and hard to pay attention to the lesson.</p>Enunciationtag:www.authors.com,2016-05-20:3798404:BlogPost:2025432016-05-20T00:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="-enunciation-53098" class="size-full wp-image-1732 alignleft" height="210" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/05/enunciation-53098.jpg" width="210"></img> Today I'd like to discuss enunciation. Years ago, I was asked to speak at a Lion's Club meeting. I don't remember the topic, maybe my trip to Mexico in 1988. Anyway, I sat in front of the crowd and started mumbling. Somebody told me to stand up and speak up. So I did.</p>
<p>Since then, I've been speaking in public for various reasons. Either to attract people to the martial arts club or discussing my books. Each time is a learning experience and a chance for me to work on my…</p>
<p><img class="size-full wp-image-1732 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/05/enunciation-53098.jpg" alt="-enunciation-53098" width="210" height="210"/>Today I'd like to discuss enunciation. Years ago, I was asked to speak at a Lion's Club meeting. I don't remember the topic, maybe my trip to Mexico in 1988. Anyway, I sat in front of the crowd and started mumbling. Somebody told me to stand up and speak up. So I did.</p>
<p>Since then, I've been speaking in public for various reasons. Either to attract people to the martial arts club or discussing my books. Each time is a learning experience and a chance for me to work on my speaking skills.</p>
<p>When I was a broadcaster for WKEI/WJRE in Kewanee, Illinois (self-proclaimed Hog Capital of the World, but don't get me started on the city water) I had to enunciate to be understood by the tens of fans listening. (Seriously. When I would conduct contests, I could wait an hour for 'the tenth caller' to call in to win.)</p>
<p>Broadcasting sports was fun. The Wethersfield Flying Geese was the other township in Kewanee, colors green and white. I had to be able to pronounce players' names and coherently discuss the football or basketball game before me. I never messed up a football game (and that's saying something for a guy who never played football and barely knew the positions, let alone what play they were running), but I did mess up twice when doing basketball. One time it was enunciation and the other was a faux pas. (Ask me about them next time you see. They're funny as hell.)</p>
<p>Anyway, I've listened to myriad television and radio voices throughout the year and I've tried to improve my speaking voice. I admit, I have a problem with speaking too quickly to be understood. Especially when reading material to critique groups. I have to consciously slow down and realize that I'll have time to read, that nobody is going to hurry me.</p>
<p>I mention this topic, because I think good speaking is important to authors and those who speak for a living, i.e. radio personalities. I think it lends credibility to the individual.</p>
<p>Which is why I'd like to point out two examples of where enunciation is a glaring problem. Sure, everybody fumbles over words. I understand and most can make a nice recovery. It's when I don't think the person knows he/she has said something wrong that I have an issue.</p>
<p>I love WHO Radio. I enjoy the shows and the personalities. God bless Jan and hurry back because we miss you. There are two personalities who need to work on slowing down and enunciating a word. The first is one of the weather forecasters. I've listened many times to her forecasts and she completes the weather with the standard, “This is the 1040 WHO three day weather forecast, I'm meterologist ____”</p>
<p>No, that's not a typo. That's what she says she is, a meterologist. As I said, I've listened dozens of times and it's always the same thing. She doesn't take the time to add the extra syllable to be correct. She's a <i>meteorologist</i>.</p>
<p>The other is a guy who has memorized the script he rattles off the closing line too fast. Everybody else says, “This is the 1040 WHO three day weather forecast...” It's understandable and you can hear every single word in its entirety. However, there this guy who says, “This is the 1040 WHO three d weather forecast...”</p>
<p>Just the D sound, not day.</p>
<p>Why do I seemingly pick on these two people? Because as a speaker I have to watch my words. I have to be understood by the public. Hec, to be a broadcaster, you have to send in an audition tape. Which means people will hear you say words.</p>
<p>What's happened here? Years of broadcasting has made people lax in their words. These examples are two that have bothered me.</p>
<p>What have you heard mispronounced or garbled?</p>Chapters - VIIItag:www.authors.com,2016-04-15:3798404:BlogPost:1994252016-04-15T02:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><i><img alt="C08" class="wp-image-1549 alignleft" height="245" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/c08.jpg" width="347"></img> No-one told us there would be fish in the water. The children were scared.”</i></p>
<p>Unless there were piranhas in the pool, where do you live where no fish are in the water? Sheesh!</p>
<p>***</p>
<p>At the time of this writing, I'm one week removed from an accident that shook me up worse than I thought one would.</p>
<p>Now, I've had a few accidents in my years. I rear-ended a car while delivering pizza which screwed up my car's steering and lost me my job. I also regretted…</p>
<p><i><img class="wp-image-1549 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/04/c08.jpg" alt="C08" width="347" height="245"/>No-one told us there would be fish in the water. The children were scared.”</i></p>
<p>Unless there were piranhas in the pool, where do you live where no fish are in the water? Sheesh!</p>
<p>***</p>
<p>At the time of this writing, I'm one week removed from an accident that shook me up worse than I thought one would.</p>
<p>Now, I've had a few accidents in my years. I rear-ended a car while delivering pizza which screwed up my car's steering and lost me my job. I also regretted that accident, not because of the ticket or the lost job, but because I really liked my first car. A 1975 Fiat Box (no, that wasn't the actually model name, but it was basically a boxy car). The car used to cool itself by turning on the fan when I shut off the engine. Confounded a few people.</p>
<p>I've backed into a fire hydrant. I hit a deer when I owned my Daytona. That time wasn't too bad. I tell people my psychic powers came into play because just after I thought the stretch of road I was on would be bad for meeting a deer, the animal came out of the ditch. Damaged my right headlight, but not much else.</p>
<p>I've pulled out from a parking place and hit a van. Minor damage was done to my car and nothing to his.</p>
<p>This latest deer accident was the worst in which I've been involved. I looked to my right and when I looked back a young doe was already in front of the car. There was no chance of slowing or avoiding it. No, the animal didn't survive and I think that's what shocked me the most. Not that I damaged my car or that I might have to call for assistance to get home, but that I'd killed a deer.</p>
<p>I've run over a fox, one or two squirrels and a family of raccoons and each of those affected me. I know mankind has intruded upon where animals have reigned and it's inevitable that we're going to encounter them with our autos. Sue me, I'm sensitive. I don't have to like it.</p>
<p>So I pulled over and yes, I'll admit it, I cried for a bit. Then I assessed the damage to the car, retrieved pieces of the car from the road and checked on the curled up corpse of the deer in the ditch. I told it I was sorry and drove home.</p>
<p>The next evening my friend wondered if I was feeling okay to drive to writers group. I was. I was fine the previous evening. I'd been fine to drive after my other accidents. I try to stay more focused but that's natural.</p>
<p>Fears. I've had some close encounters at times. One evening I drove to announce a basketball game and the roads were slick with ice. I rounded a corner and the front wheel drive of the company car started to pull me off. Mere feet before I would have gone over an embankment into a creek, I recovered. My stomach didn't return to it's normal anatomical position for awhile. But driving home, I was okay.</p>
<p>I've flown a few times in my life and I'm fine with flying. However, there is one moment when the heart speeds up for a moment or two. I'm always leery of when the plane lands. Part of my mind doesn't think it'll be smooth. So much weight coming down on those tires and how much stress and pressure must the landing gear endure.</p>
<p>Fears. We all have them. Share some of yours.</p>Reading Listtag:www.authors.com,2016-04-07:3798404:BlogPost:1997602016-04-07T23:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="summerreadinglist_istock_34481384_hires_983px" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1545" height="544" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/summerreadinglist_istock_34481384_hires_983px.png?w=680" width="983"></img> One of the cool things about blogs is to ask a question at the end to entice comments. Well, I want to ask one at the beginning.</p>
<p>What are you reading right now?</p>
<p>Okay, don't be literal and say, “Dude, I'm reading your blog.”</p>
<p>I mean your reading list of books.</p>
<p>Are you like me and have several going at once?</p>
<p>Currently, I am reading:</p>
<p>- A book I'm recording for a friend. I read a chapter or two when I get the chance. I use Audacity to make the…</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1545" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/summerreadinglist_istock_34481384_hires_983px.png?w=680" alt="summerreadinglist_istock_34481384_hires_983px" width="983" height="544"/>One of the cool things about blogs is to ask a question at the end to entice comments. Well, I want to ask one at the beginning.</p>
<p>What are you reading right now?</p>
<p>Okay, don't be literal and say, “Dude, I'm reading your blog.”</p>
<p>I mean your reading list of books.</p>
<p>Are you like me and have several going at once?</p>
<p>Currently, I am reading:</p>
<p>- A book I'm recording for a friend. I read a chapter or two when I get the chance. I use Audacity to make the recordings. Check it out, it's a pretty neat piece of software and I'm not using even a small fraction of it functions.</p>
<p>- A book on my Nook.</p>
<p>- An audio book in my car. I'm also using Audacity to cut up unabridged audio books into hour long chunks so that I can burn them onto rewritable CDs.</p>
<p>- A comic book in the bathroom. You know, for those times when I'm sitting in the bathroom.</p>
<p>In addition, I may be reading a Nook book that someone has sent me for review. Currently, I'm working on my own stuff, but for most of February and March, I was reading other books for review.</p>
<p>Before I started on the reviewing, I used to read two books at once. At a former motel job, I had a lot of time to write and read. So I would read one chapter of one story, then switch to another book for a chapter. I don't do that anymore and wouldn't want to go back to it.</p>
<p>I'm also one of those who can pick up a book that I haven't looked at for months and go right back into the story.</p>
<p>So, now that you've had time to think about the above question, I invite your answer.</p>Student Attitude - Part IIItag:www.authors.com,2016-04-01:3798404:BlogPost:1994722016-04-01T04:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="attitude" class="wp-image-1539 alignright" height="297" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/attitude.jpg?w=680" width="297"></img> This week, I finish up the essays my students submitted regarding Attitude. I've enjoyed reading and sharing them. March's theme has been Courtesy and I look forward to reading the essays regarding that subject.</p>
<p><span>ELIJAH</span></p>
<p><span><span><span>My paper is on attitude. Attitudes can be good and some can be bad. If you look it up in the dictionary, you will find that attitude means “ a feeling or disposition regarding one’s…</span></span></span></p>
<p><img class="wp-image-1539 alignright" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/attitude.jpg?w=680" alt="attitude" width="297" height="297"/>This week, I finish up the essays my students submitted regarding Attitude. I've enjoyed reading and sharing them. March's theme has been Courtesy and I look forward to reading the essays regarding that subject.</p>
<p><span>ELIJAH</span></p>
<p><span><span><span>My paper is on attitude. Attitudes can be good and some can be bad. If you look it up in the dictionary, you will find that attitude means “ a feeling or disposition regarding one’s feeling.”</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Attitude is very important. It shows what kind of person you are. Would you rather spend time among a bunch of ungrateful people that make you grumpy or with a group of cheerful people that make you cheery? (I would go with the second, but that’s just me.) Sometimes your attitude depends on your maturity.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Whenever I have a really bad day, I can notice others, and, if they are cheery, I can take after their examples. The same thing happens vice-versa. Your attitude can very well affect others. Just try to keep that in mind and be the best example you can be, especially to little ones.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>So let’s review. Attitude is important, and it can affect others. It shows what kind of person you are as well. Let your attitude show that you are a good person.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span>NOELLE</span></p>
<p align="right"></p>
<p><span><span><span>The definition of attitude is “a feeling or disposition with regard to a thing or person, usually with the mind.” I define attitude as the way you feel or think about someone or something. Attitude is important because it can shape the way you rule your day. It can completely change how you do something, good or bad.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>A poor attitude is not good for your soul. It can ruin your day with just a single thought. If someone was running down the halls at school and they turned around to see the new kid walking toward them, they could choose to see what the person was like, which would be good attitude. Or they could just judge them for what they've heard about them. They've been having a bad day, so they choose to bear a poor attitude. They judge the new person rudely and storm off. That kind of stuff ruins your day and you can rarely recover from choosing a poor attitude.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Choosing a good attitude, however, can brighten your day. If you were strolling outside because it was a beautiful, warm day and storm clouds begin to form, choosing to the enjoy the walk you took and not being upset that you couldn't walk longer makes you feel a whole lot better about it. It makes you want to enjoy the rest of your day, and it makes you want to have others feel the way you do.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>To me, attitude is very important. I try to choose a good attitude, but a lot of times I fail. That's okay, though, because with a good attitude, anything can happen! With a good attitude, it's possible to keep myself and my emotions in control, keep myself always happy, and, even better, it's possible to give others the gift of true happiness. Attitude is a key to joy - and you can share that with others, too.</span></span></span></p>
<p><span><span><span>Attitude is very important to me, and it should be important to you too. If I have a good attitude, I just know that God is with me wherever I go. I try to use my attitude to enlighten other people's days. That is a good way to use your attitude. Any type of attitude can make an impact on your life - either good or bad. Which will you choose?</span></span></span></p>Student Attitude - Part IItag:www.authors.com,2016-03-25:3798404:BlogPost:1995572016-03-25T10:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="karatekidcircles" class="size-full wp-image-1524 alignleft" height="265" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/karatekidcircles.png" width="320"></img> This week, I present more of my taekwondo students' thoughts on Attitude. Some are too young to write, so they have assistance from mom and dad to help them discuss the topic and to put words to paper.</p>
<p><span>Reece</span></p>
<p>Negative:</p>
<p>- You have trouble seeing good things</p>
<p>- You don't have fun</p>
<p>- Nobody wants to be around you</p>
<p>- You will have bad things happened because you will not be able to see any good things</p>
<p>Positive:</p>
<p>- You see…</p>
<p><img class="size-full wp-image-1524 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/karatekidcircles.png" alt="karatekidcircles" width="320" height="265"/>This week, I present more of my taekwondo students' thoughts on Attitude. Some are too young to write, so they have assistance from mom and dad to help them discuss the topic and to put words to paper.</p>
<p><span>Reece</span></p>
<p>Negative:</p>
<p>- You have trouble seeing good things</p>
<p>- You don't have fun</p>
<p>- Nobody wants to be around you</p>
<p>- You will have bad things happened because you will not be able to see any good things</p>
<p>Positive:</p>
<p>- You see how good life is</p>
<p>- You have fun</p>
<p>- You have lots of friends</p>
<p>- Good things will happen because you can always see how things could be worse</p>
<p>My name is Reece. I am four years old. My family has talked about attitudes and how they can affect how you see life. Negative attitudes will only bring bad things like no friends, and getting trouble. Positive attitudes will bring friends and lots of fun, because having a positive attitude is being happy and looking at things in a positive way, like being happy and funny. I also love to help others by doing things for them. I help my dad a lot, we build out house and I hammer and use the screwdriver. I put my toys away when I am having a positive attitude, too. But when I am having a negative attitude I don't help or put my toys away. I am learning that my negative attitude gets me in trouble and makes me sad. When I have a positive attitude, I am happy. So I will try to have a positive attitude and have a happy life.</p>
<p><span>Brant</span></p>
<p>Attitude is the way you think and feel about someone or something. My attitude affects my behavior. If I have a positive attitude, then my behavior looks like I'm nice, caring, responsible, respectful. When I have a bad attitude, it looks like angry, disrespectful, mean.</p>
<p><span>Tyson</span></p>
<p>The reason to have a good attitude is because you won't get in trouble. A good attitude helps get things done and achieve your goals. People like to work with people with a good attitude. Everyone has control over their attitude.</p>
<p><span>Stella</span></p>
<p>Attitude is how you are feeling. When you are feeling good you have a good attitude. Having a good attitude means the people around you will see you are happy and be happy, too. I have more fun and learn more when I have a good attitude.</p>
<p>Bad attitudes make you feel bad and yucky. When you have a bad attitude, people see it and do not want to talk to you or play with you very much. If you have a bad attitude, you do not listen and learn as much so you teachers can get upset.</p>
<p>I like to bring a good attitude to class so I can learn and have fun. I like the beginning and end of karate when we bow in and out. It helps me have a good attitude for the class. I like the other kids to have goo attitudes too because it makes it easy to learn.</p>Student Attitude - Part Itag:www.authors.com,2016-03-18:3798404:BlogPost:1995562016-03-18T10:00:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="NEW-ATTITUDE" class="wp-image-1519 alignleft" height="293" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/new-attitude.jpg?w=680" width="389"></img> I've written about attitude before, but February's theme was attitude and I thought I'd share some of my students' thoughts on attitude. (Actually, for testing, each student is required to write at least a one page essay on the theme of the month.)</p>
<p><span>Abigail</span></p>
<p>To me, attitude means the feeling with which a person does tings, and it is these feelings that affect every aspect of not only the person's actions, but everything around them as well.</p>
<p>First is…</p>
<p><img class="wp-image-1519 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/new-attitude.jpg?w=680" alt="NEW-ATTITUDE" width="389" height="293"/>I've written about attitude before, but February's theme was attitude and I thought I'd share some of my students' thoughts on attitude. (Actually, for testing, each student is required to write at least a one page essay on the theme of the month.)</p>
<p><span>Abigail</span></p>
<p>To me, attitude means the feeling with which a person does tings, and it is these feelings that affect every aspect of not only the person's actions, but everything around them as well.</p>
<p>First is the actions themselves. If a person has a negative attitude about what they are doing, chances are they will not be able to accomplish the task as well as if they had a positive attitude. For example, take a board break. If the breaker has an “I can't do this” attitude, or a “this is so stupid” attitude, I firmly believe they will either be unable to break the board, or will do it badly, maybe even to the point of injury. If their attitude is one of “YES! I got this!” or “This is awesome!” the break will be much safer, easier, and more enjoyable.</p>
<p>The second thing impacted by attitude is the experience itself. As I said, the break an be much easier and enjoyable if the person has a good attitude. If they have a bad attitude, they won't enjoy the experience as much and will be less likely to try again, even if they had good results. It's like going to a theme park and falling in the mud, it won't matter how much fun they had throughout the day. The mud will be the only thing they remember.</p>
<p>The third thing attitude influences is the environment around the person. If two people have been fighting, everyone can feel it, even if they weren’t in the same room. Why? Because humans are naturally empathetic, and can pick up on those negative feelings, so they can't help but be influenced. A negative attitude will spread to the people around the originator, and the result will be no one having a good experience, which no one really wants.</p>
<p>Attitude is much more than giving a sassy remark when asked a question or given an order. It influences both the person and their surroundings in many ways, only a few of which have been named in this paper. In a nutshell, however, attitude is, at heart, the feelings a person has and how those feelings impact the world around them, for better or for worse.</p>
<p><span>Sam</span></p>
<p>I am four years old, so I had help from my mom writing this essay because we talked about attitude. We have talked about how your attitude can be positive or negative. I try to have a positive attitude so my day is a good day. Having a positive attitude means to listen to others and be kind to them. Knowing others might be having a bad day so they could be mean to you, but if you stay positive and not let others' actions make you negative is having a good attitude. Being happy that you have a loving home and many good things in your life will help you keep a positive attitude. If I do have a negative attitude I am going to try and fix it by looking at why I think things are bad so I can be more positive. Helping others and hearing my mom say how proud she is of my actions will make me have a positive attitude. When I have a good attitude others around me will also have a good attitude. Being active and around fun people help me keep a positive attitude. My mom will continue to help me understand the meaning of a good attitude over a bad attitude because she wants the best life for me and having a positive attitude will bring positive things.</p>Focustag:www.authors.com,2016-03-03:3798404:BlogPost:1991182016-03-03T23:30:00.000ZStephen Lawrence Braytonhttp://www.authors.com/profile/StephenLawrenceBrayton
<p><img alt="Focus" class="size-full wp-image-1475 alignleft" height="186" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/focus1.jpg" width="281"></img> In my taekwondo classes, we emphasize the aspect of focus when learning a technique. Focus on stances. Focus on hand position. We also discuss a broader perspective of focusing on whatever goals have been set.</p>
<p>There is so much to this theme it's difficult to just stay with one point.</p>
<p>When I'm competing in tournaments, I've learned to focus on my performance. I don't look at the judges, except when bowing in and accepting my score. When I start my form, I focus on a…</p>
<p><img class="size-full wp-image-1475 alignleft" src="https://stephenbrayton.files.wordpress.com/2016/03/focus1.jpg" alt="Focus" width="281" height="186"/>In my taekwondo classes, we emphasize the aspect of focus when learning a technique. Focus on stances. Focus on hand position. We also discuss a broader perspective of focusing on whatever goals have been set.</p>
<p>There is so much to this theme it's difficult to just stay with one point.</p>
<p>When I'm competing in tournaments, I've learned to focus on my performance. I don't look at the judges, except when bowing in and accepting my score. When I start my form, I focus on a spot above their heads. I try to tune out any distractions. When I change directions, I don't look at the audience or other competitors. For the two plus minutes I'm moving through the form, I don't think I hear crowd noise or music except as a background rush of white noise.</p>
<p>I focus on my moves. I think about the technique I'm doing and how I've trained to execute it the best I can. Then I think about the next move. If I make a mistake or don't land properly after a jump kick, I try to recover a quickly as possible and move on. I don't let the judges know I've erred by reacting.</p>
<p>In sparring, I'm focused on the opponent, trying to anticipate and counter his movements. Again, background noise get muffled and only the voices of the judges get through.</p>
<p>When I write, I do so either in as much of a quiet atmosphere as possible or with music playing low. (Usually jazz or classical.) This makes it difficult to write outside although if I focus, I can manage it. I have problems writing at home although it should be much quieter there...well, except for the cat who meows when he thinks I should pay attention to him. However, there seems to be more distractions at home. Or at least I allow distractions to...well, distract me.</p>
<p>In college, I could concentrate on homework unless somebody's radio was playing, with one exception. The guys across the hall liked to play various hip-hop songs that were composed before rap became so popular and so stupid. The 'music' was a simple two, three, or four beat rhythm repeated for several minutes. For some reason, I could focus on my studies with that reverberating through the doors. I think this is similar to classical. The ongoing beat was constant. It never changed. Classical music all sounds the same to me (I know it's not, so don't any music aficionados write me nasty emails) so, for me, it doesn't change too much either. The only interruption on some of those long nights was the NPR announcer announcing the previous and next symphony in a voice that sounded as if he'd swallowed a handful of Valium before his shift. Seriously, listen to late night NPR. The guy sounds as if he just woke up. Of course, if you're playing hours and hours of classical, I can understand it. (Oh lighten up, I'm joking. I actually enjoy classical music. However, I don't apologize for calling rap stupid. I mean, have you listened to some it? lol)</p>
<p>How do you focus on your tasks? Do they vary day to day or with individual projects?</p>